Human rights are at the heart of PEN Perth’s mission. We promote literature, defend freedom of expression and support writers at risk.
Human Rights and Freedom of Expression
Freedom of expression is more than the right to speak – it is the freedom to write, create, question and share ideas without fear.
Why freedom of expression matters
Freedom of expression is recognised as a fundamental human right under Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It protects everyone’s right to seek, receive and share information and ideas through any media and across national borders.
This freedom underpins many other human rights. Without it, journalists cannot report freely, writers may be censored, artists may be silenced and communities lose the ability to discuss ideas openly.
For PEN Perth, defending freedom of expression means defending the right to think, write, publish and participate in public life without fear of persecution.
Literature can
change lives
Throughout history, books have challenged injustice, preserved culture and inspired social change.
Writers, poets, journalists and translators help us understand different perspectives and experiences. Their words encourage empathy, preserve history and remind us of our shared humanity.
When writers are silenced, society loses those voices.
When a writer’s voice is silenced, we are all silenced.
Burhan Sönmez, President,
PEN International
How PEN Perth promotes human rights
Celebrate literature
We organise events that inspire conversation, creativity and cultural understanding, encouraging people to explore literature and human rights.
Defend freedom of expression
We advocate for the right to write, publish and exchange ideas freely, while promoting respectful dialogue and open discussion.
Support writers at risk
We stand in solidarity with writers who face censorship, persecution or imprisonment because of their words, raising awareness of their cases.
Resources
Explore the work of these organisations promoting human rights, freedom of expression and literary freedom around the world.
PEN International The worldwide association of writers promoting literature, freedom of expression and writers at risk.
Universal Declaration of Human Rights The landmark international document setting out the fundamental rights and freedoms of all people.
Amnesty International Australia Campaigns to protect human rights and end injustice around the world.
Human Rights Watch Independent investigations and reporting on human rights abuses worldwide.
Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) United Nations body responsible for promoting and protecting human rights globally.
UNESCO – Freedom of Expression and Safety of Journalists Information and initiatives supporting freedom of expression, media freedom and the safety of journalists