Freedom of Expression

International PEN brings together writers, journalists, poets - all those using the written word to promote ideas - in the common belief that it is through this sharing that bridges of understanding can be built between peoples. These bridges cross political, geographical, ethnic, cultural, religious and other divides.

It is for this reason that the protection of the right to freedom of expression - the freedom to express ideas without fear of attack, arrest or other persecution - has been at the heart of International PEN's work since it was formed in 1921.

PEN's work and advocacy was fully developed by the time the Universal Declaration on Human Rights was declared and adopted by the United Nations in 1948. It has been argued that PEN helped to define the concept of freedom of expression that is now enshrined under Article 19 of the Declaration, a right that is as important today as it was when it was defined in the aftermath of World War Two.

Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive , and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers.