Focus Regions
PEN America works to protect freedom of expression and promote fundamental rights around the world, with particular emphasis in Focus Regions where we have developed expertise and built relationships with people and organizations on the ground. Read below to learn more about PEN America’s initiatives to help address distinct regional challenges in these areas and how you can be part of these important efforts.
Many challenges to free expression transcend state and regional boundaries. Learn more about our approaches to these Focus Issues.
United States
The United States proudly stands as a haven for free expression at home and a champion of free speech abroad. PEN America works to ensure that the United States… More
Saudi Arabia
PEN America's Saudi Arabia advocacy focuses on ensuring justice for Jamal Khashoggi’s murder and calling for the release of imprisoned writers. More
Bangladesh
The climate for free expression in Bangladesh has significantly deteriorated: Radical Islamist groups have claimed the killings of six bloggers, free thinkers, and their publishers since February 2015, and… More
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PEN America On 
Fort Worth, TX: On Tuesday Oct. 11 we're talking local reporting and community media with some journalist luminaries. Join us! @FortWorthReport @keratx @VotebeatUS https://pen.org/event/celebrating-the-power-of-community-journalism-in-fort-worth-during-election-seasons/
Four years ago, #JamalKhashoggi was murdered on orders of the Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Today, Saudi writers and critics are jailed for decades, as Mohammed bin Salman’s power expands. We continue to demand #JusticeForJamal and the #FreedomToWrite: https://pen.org/advocacy-case/jamal-khashoggi/
Festival Day is still on for today! All of our programs have moved INDOORS!
💔Unfortunately, we've had to cancel our Literary Marketplace due to the wind. You can still support them all online! And we look forward to having them next year!