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Writers in Prison Day
and the Ossietzky Prize
International PEN has established 15th November as the international Writers
in Prison Day. This is an annual event focusing on the perils facing
writers, publishers, editors and journalists using their freedom of expression.
Freedom of Expression, as stated in article 19 of the UN Declaration of Human
Rights, is a right given to everyone. Unfortunately, in many countries
this right is under severe pressure and cannot be taken for granted.
In 2002, more than 700 writers and journalists were attacked or put in prison,
some were even killed.
For the past nine years, Norwegian PEN has awarded the Ossietzky Prize for
outstanding achievements within the field of freedom of expression on 15th
November. The prize has been awarded to literary writers Axel Jensen,
Johanna Schwartz, Wera Sæther, Brit Karin Larsen and Koigi wa Wamwere,
journalists/writers Elisabeth Eide and Håkon Børde, publisher
Sigmund Strømme and supreme court judge Ketil Lund.
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