Over 180 writers, including Nobel laureates and internationally acclaimed authors, have signed an urgent appeal to Eritrea’s president demanding evidence of the well-being of 12 detained writers who have been held incommunicado since a 2001 government crackdown on free speech. The letter, coordinated by PEN International, marks the 25th anniversary of the suppression of independent media and independent voices in the country. The signatories highlight the systematic elimination of press freedom following the crackdown, calling for accountability and transparency regarding the fate of those still imprisoned. The plea underscores ongoing global concerns over the prolonged detention and lack of due process for the writers.
More than 180 writers sign letter renewing calls for information on 12 authors detained incommunicado since 2001 crackdown on free speech by Isaias AfwerkiMore than 180 writers have signed a letter to Eritrean president Isaias Afwerki calling for proof of life for 12 writers arrested in 2001.Nobel laureates Olga Tokarczuk and JM Coetzee join prominent writers including Colm Tóibín, Elif Shafak, Isabel Allende, Ben Okri, Yann Martel, Kamila Shamsie and Tsitsi Dangarembga in signing the letter organised by PEN International and dated 18 September, marking 25 years since a government crackdown on the independent press. “Within days, Eritrea’s free press and the nation’s independent voices were systematically crushed,” opens the letter. Continue reading...
