In 80 years of existence International PEN has come to link writers everywhere in support of civil values associated with the creation of the world’s literatures. Its voice is heard in high places – it enjoys consultant status at UNESCO as the umbrella literary organisation. To every PEN member the events and colleagues of his or her local PEN centre are the immediate face of the association. It is through the centres that the fellowship of PEN members is expressed, from participation in literary projects through to campaigns against censorship and repression.

PEN is proud of the list of eminent writers who have devoted their energies to developing its distinctive vision and mission. H.G.Wells was its President when, meeting in 1933 at Dubrovnik, the Assembly condemned the totalitarianism of both Nazi Germany and Stalin’s Soviet Russia. Its focus on freedom of expression has not wavered in the years since. At Congresses of International PEN, held annually in cities all over the world, delegates from many of the 150 centres meet, discuss matters of importance to literature and writing, build PEN’s policies and activities, and learn the scope of PEN’s undertaking and powers.

The work of International PEN is carried out at two levels: through the activities of member centres and by the programmes of the Standing Committees and Secretariat of International PEN. Within the ideals of organisational democracy centres themselves decide on membership criteria, select their representatives and conduct their activities. (PEN is not a trade union, and may not act as a literary agent.)