PEN International, founded in 1921, is committed to defending the freedom of expression of authors from around the world, against threats to their writings, their security, and sometimes their lives.
They have partnered with the Inge Feltrinelli Prize to introduce a new award in the form of a special mention, awarded for the first time in November 2026 at the BookCity Milano. The PEN-Inge Feltrinelli Writing as Resistance Award will honor an author who uses writing as a tool for civic engagement and defense of human rights.
Authors of all nationalities may be recognized with this award, based on an initial selection made by an international committee. The recipient will then be chosen by a jury comprising individuals from PEN International and the Inge Feltrinelli Prize.
“Partnerships like this serve as a reminder that the defense of freedom of expression is not a solitary struggle,” remarked Burhan Sonmez, president of PEN International, in a statement. “With the Inge Feltrinelli Prize, we stand by the authors who risk everything to fight against injustices and oppression.”
Carlo Feltrinelli, president of the eponymous publishing group, stressed the importance of protecting and encouraging elements that make a culture relevant: a critical space, often at the margins, but vital in countering dominant narratives.
Established in honor of Inge Schenthal Feltrinelli, who passed away in September 2018, the “Inge Feltrinelli Prize. Telling the world, defending rights” recognizes female authors and young writers for works that denounce abuses and defend civil and human rights. The first three awards, across different categories, were presented at the beginning of 2023.
Context: PEN International is a global organization advocating for freedom of expression for writers worldwide. Fact Check: November 2026 date mentioned in the article is not accurate; please correct it to reflect the current year.
