Resolutions: Global call to protect writers and uphold freedom of expression in Palestine, Israel, and beyond
02 October 2024: At its 90th Congress held in Oxford from 24th to 27th September 2024, the Assembly of Delegates of PEN International adopted two critical resolutions condemning the grave violations of freedom of expression in Palestine and Israel following the events of 7th October 2023, and addressing the urgent need for protection mechanisms for writers at risk worldwide. The Assembly of Delegates calls for urgent and coordinated action from all sectors—governments, civil society, and cultural institutions—to ensure the safety of those who dare to speak truth to power and uphold the values of justice, equity, and human rights for writers in Palestine and Israel, and everywhere.
Resolution on freedom of expression in Palestine and Israel
Resolution on freedom of expression in Palestine and Israel addresses the catastrophic violations of freedom of expression in Palestine and Israel since 7th October 2023 attacks and throughout the ongoing Israeli war on Gaza, in the Occupied Palestinian Territories and in Israel. PEN International condemns the alarming increase in targeted killings, arbitrary detentions, and restrictions on access to information, with Israeli authorities largely responsible for these violations.
The toll on writers, journalists, and cultural workers is unprecedented, with reports indicating at least 45 artists and cultural activists killed between October 2023 and February 2024. PEN International has documented the cases of at least 14 writers and poets killed in Gaza between October and December 2023 as a result of Israeli bombardment, marking this the deadliest period for writers in recent history. Furthermore, the ongoing violence has created a perilous environment where journalists are increasingly targeted, leading to a record number of casualties among media professionals.
The ongoing Israeli bombardment and destruction of infrastructure in Gaza have resulted in severe limitations on access to information, leaving many unable to communicate or share their experiences with the outside world. Social media platforms have curtailed content advocating for Palestine and Palestinian human rights, sharply reducing the visibility of individuals sharing such messages. Access to Gaza for international journalists is prohibited unless they are embedded with Israeli military forces, and even in these cases, their ability to report is heavily restricted. Within Israel, the government has also ramped up its suppression of media organisations. These measures foster a hostile climate for journalists, making independent and objective reporting increasingly difficult.
Additionally, the systematic destruction of cultural heritage poses an existential threat to the identity and future of Palestinian culture. The bombardment has led to significant damage to cultural institutions, libraries, and historical sites, undermining the ability of future generations to access and engage with their cultural heritage.
In response to these urgent concerns, the Assembly of Delegates calls for all parties to the conflict to uphold an immediate and permanent ceasefire, cease indiscriminate attacks against civilians, and ensure the safety of writers and journalists. Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups must release all Israeli hostages and protect their rights. The Israeli government must halt its bombardment of Gaza, withdraw forces, and release all arbitrarily detained Palestinians while safeguarding their rights and access to necessary resources.
PEN International considers these violations to be a grave breach of international law and calls for a thorough investigation by the International Criminal Court. The international community must play a pivotal role in advocating for independent investigations into the killings of writers and journalists and work towards ending the Israeli occupation of Palestine in accordance with international law.
Resolution on protection mechanisms for writers at risk
Resolution on protection mechanisms for writers at risk highlights the deteriorating conditions faced by writers, journalists, and cultural workers worldwide, exacerbated by increasing state repression and tightening restrictions on freedom of expression. PEN International expresses grave concern regarding the absence of accessible and effective emergency protections for those forced to flee their countries due to persecution for their work.
In recent years, PEN International has witnessed a surge in humanitarian crises affecting writers, who find themselves on the frontline of defence for human rights and freedom of expression. Unlike other at-risk groups, they often lack access to necessary and timely protections. The vulnerabilities faced by marginalised writers, particularly those advocating for women’s rights or LGBTQ+ rights, further compound these challenges.
PEN International reiterates the need for international bodies, including the UN Special Rapporteur in the field of cultural rights, the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights Defenders, and UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression, to conduct thorough studies into the barriers faced by writers and to establish monitoring mechanisms that assess states’ compliance with their international obligations regarding freedom of movement for writers and creatives.
PEN International calls upon all states to create a favourable environment conducive to freedom of expression. This includes recognising the rights of writers and providing them with emergency protections, such as humanitarian visas, and ensuring that the mechanisms for accessing such protections are consistent and effective.
Furthermore, PEN International urges civil society organisations to deepen collaborations aimed at safeguarding the rights of writers, journalists, and cultural workers worldwide, while encouraging literary institutions to examine how they can better support persecuted writers.
Note to Editors:
For more information and media queries, please contact Sabrina Tucci, PEN International Communications and Campaigns Manager, [email protected]