China Campaign: We Are Ready for Freedom of Expression

As the 2008 Olympic Games in China approach, Chinese writers and journalists continue to be censored, harassed, and imprisoned throughout the country. PEN calls for the release of all currently imprisoned writers; complete media freedom; the end of Internet censorship; and drastic reform of laws used to jail writers and suppress freedom of expression in China.

>> Learn more & take action

Writers in Peril

International pressure is the single most critical factor in the fate of writers imprisoned or harassed around the world, many of whom are Honorary Members of PEN. This campaign has long worked to ensure the safety of these writers, and we are committed to pressing these cases until they are freed, exonerated, or safe from further threat.

>> Learn more & take action

Rapid Action Network

The Rapid Action Network (RAN) was founded by International PEN in 1991. PEN utilizes the Network to alert Members as rapidly as possible to disturbing developments affecting the welfare of writers and journalists around the globe, and to encourage them to respond instantly by writing an appeal and passing the information on to their contacts.

>> Learn more & take action

Iraqi Refugees Campaign: The Least We Can Do

Since the 1930s, PEN has assisted colleagues who are forced to seek refuge abroad. Since 2006, this campaign has been working to resettle Iraqi translators, writers, and journalists who have been targeted for death and forced into hiding and to press the U.S. government to institute programs to resettle Iraqis who are persecuted as a result of their efforts to build a safe, free, and open society in Iraq.

>> Learn more & take action

Campaign Against Torture & Due-Process Violations

The United States has joined the list of countries that violate both the international ban on torture and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This campaign focuses on the restoration of the right to habeas corpus and an end to torture, arbitrary detentions, extraordinary renditions, substandard trials, and secret prisons.

>> Learn more & take action

Campaign for Core Freedoms

Since September 11, 2001, the United States has passed laws and adopted law enforcement methods that compromise core American values and put our country on shaky ground internationally. This campaign addresses freedom of expression and human-rights concerns connected with the USA Patriot Act and the full range of antiterrorism laws and orders enacted since 9/11.

>> Learn more & take action