“As the very principles of international human rights and humanitarian law are being increasingly questioned by governments worldwide, we must redouble our efforts, defending the values that unite us: freedom, justice, and equality.” Ma Thida, Chair of PEN International’s Writers in Prison Committee.
21 March 2025: PEN International is proud to launch Identity on Trial: Persecution and Resistance – its Case List 2025, which highlights the increasing persecution of writers based on their identity. This year’s report documents the alarming rise in censorship, imprisonment, and threats faced by writers due to their gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, or religious beliefs. It underscores a disturbing global trend: those who dare express their identity or challenge dominant narratives are being silenced through legal threats, censorship, and violence.
Take Action for Mahvash Sabet
This year, on World Poetry Day, PEN International highlights the case of Mahvash Sabet, an Iranian poet and member of the persecuted Baha’i minority, who is serving a 10-year prison sentence on unfounded charges of espionage linked to her religious beliefs. Sabet, who wrote poetry while imprisoned, represents the countless voices that authoritarian governments seek to erase. We urge the international community to stand with her and demand her immediate and unconditional release.
Read the Case List 2025 and take action today.
