P.E.N. is a world-wide association of writers founded in 1921. PEN’s chief aim is set out in its Charter which calls for better understanding and respect among nations through friendly co-operation between writers in the interests of freedom of expression throughout the world. PEN is non-political, non-governmental organisation with category A status at U.N.E.S.C.O.

‘PEN’ is an acronym derived from the initials of Poets, Playwrights, Editors, Essayists and Novelists. IT SHOULD ALWAYS BE SPELT IN CAPS.  

Today with more than 130 centres from about 100 countries throughout the world PEN is considered as the biggest umbrella of world writers. Each centre is run independently and has its own internal rules, but, at the same time, each centre and all its members must subscribe to the PEN Charter.

 PEN’s membership  is open to all qualified authors who subscribe to the PEN Charter.  Membership of one centre confers membership on all.