Formation | 1921 |
---|---|
Type | Literary society, human rights organization |
Legal status | Non-governmental organization |
Official language | English |
Key people | Board of Trustees[1] |
Website | www |
Founded in 1921, English PEN is one of the world's first non-governmental organisations and among the first international bodies advocating for human rights.[2] English PEN was the founding centre of PEN International, a worldwide writers' association with 145 centres in more than 100 countries.[3] The President of English PEN is Margaret Busby, succeeding Philippe Sands in April 2023.[4][5] The Director is Daniel Gorman.[6] The Chair is Ruth Borthwick.[1]
English PEN celebrates the diversity of literature and envisions a world with free expression and equity of opportunity for all by supporting writers at risk and campaigning for freedom of expression nationally and internationally.[7] English PEN also hosts events and prizes to champion international literature, showcase the diversity of writing, and celebrate literary courage.[8] By supporting literature in translation into English and developing opportunities for publishers, translators and translated voices, English PEN aims to encourage diversity in the literary landscape.[9]