The written word is the life blood of communication and democracy, and attempts to silence writers anywhere in the world affect us all. Now in the 21st century we need to be more alert than ever to the curtailment of free expression, and more active than ever in helping the written word to cross borders.

For over 80 years Scottish PEN has been committed to fostering a dynamic literary culture in Scotland, vital for the nation to play its part on the international stage. Most of Scotland’s leading writers have been members.

Membership is open to all who subscribe to the aims of International PEN as stated in its charter, without regard to nationality, language, race or religion. There are two categories of membership.

1) Qualified published or performed writers, editors, journalists or academics. The current annual membership fee is £25

2) Associates - members of the literary community e.g. publishers, literary agents, librarians, teachers, and students taking courses in creative writing, journalism and other areas likely to lead to writing professionally. Annual membership fee is £15

Subscription fees should only be paid after the application is approved.

If you are interested and feel you qualify, live in Scotland or are a Scottish writer living abroad, you can download the relevant Application Form below and return it to us either by e-mail or by post. Please note that every application will be considered at the first Committee meeting after it has been received. We shall then contact every applicant with the relevant outcome.

Attached Files

Application_for_membership_form1.doc