Pen International

Who we are

PEN International was founded in London, UK, in 1921, simply as PEN. Today, it operates across five continents in over 100 countries, with over 130 Centres supporting unhampered transmission of thought within each nation and between all nations.

PEN International is guided by the ideals of the PEN Charter, which expresses every member’s commitment to protecting the free exchange of ideas, and promoting the value of literature.

Our culture and values

Literature knows no frontiers and must remain common currency among people in spite of political or international upheavals.

Our members pledge themselves to oppose any form of suppression of freedom of expression in the country and community to which they belong, as well as throughout the world wherever this is possible.

Equality, diversity and inclusion policy

At PEN International we will work to ensure that:

✓ all people are treated with dignity and respect, valuing the diversity of all;

✓ equality of opportunity and diversity is promoted;

✓ services are accessible, appropriate and delivered fairly to all;

✓ the mix of its employees, volunteers and management committees reflects, as far as possible, the

broad mix of the population of its local community;

✓ traditionally disadvantaged sections of the community are encouraged to participate in policy

decisions about, and the management of the services provided.