Articles by PEN International

Thirty-seven IFEX members urge authorities to accommodate visit of UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression
The groups urged President Rajapaksa to invite the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, Frank La Rue, to Sri Lanka, while expressing deep concern for journalists who continue to be subjected to threats, harassment and assaults with alarming regularity.

Thirty-three IFEX members express grave concern over restrictions on freedom of expression
IFEX members note with alarm the efforts of China’s authorities to restrict freedom of expression in regard to debate on political reform in China, following reform movements in the Middle East and North Africa since late 2010.

Thirty-three IFEX members condemn continued persecution of imprisoned journalists
The detained journalists are held without charges and forced to endure terrible conditions such as extended periods in the sun and denial of medication.

Thirty-seven IFEX members call attention to the plight of 17 journalists, bloggers and artists who remain detained in Burmese prisons
Even though a new government has been formed in Burma after the elections in November 2010, there is still no guarantee of improvements in the country’s media environment.

Thirty IFEX members sign letter to authorities regarding attacks against journalists
IFEX members condemn the increased attacks and judicial harassment against Somali journalists and media organisations.

Thirty IFEX members protest travel ban on Nabeel Rajab and other threats to BCHR
On 1 June, the King of Bahrain has promised to end the state of emergency he imposed in mid-March to quell pro-democracy demonstrations. This would be a welcome occasion for the Bahraini government to end human rights abuses including lifting the travel ban on Nabeel Rajab so that he can join us in Beirut.

Writer and academic detained without charge
Dr Ahmad Qatamesh has been held without charge by Israeli authorities in the occupied West Bank since 21 April 2011.

Journalist acquitted after three years in prison; fears for safety
WiPC is alarmed that Jesús Lemus Barajas reportedly fears for his safety to the extent that he is planning to go into exile.