IFEX ::International PEN welcomes the release of Iranian writer, Maldives cyber-dissident, Bangladeshi writer and Tibetan monk

International PEN's Writers in Prison Committee has learned of the release of two writers in the past two weeks. All had been subject to PEN appeals. Their release is testimony to the commitment and dedication of writers world wide who have campaigned for their freedom. A third writer has been released on bail, and a fourth on expiry of his sentence.

Iranian writer Ardeshir Gholipour, held in an Australian refugee detention centre since his arrival in May 2000, was finally freed on 29 April. A writer who had been involved in the democracy movement, Gholipour had fled Iran in March that year, fearing for his life. Several writers, including one with whom Gholipour had worked, had been murdered during the previous years at the hands of Iranian police. In Australia, Gholipour lived under constant threat of forced return to Iran, and his physical and psychological health deteriorated, leading him to attempt suicide in prison. PEN members in Australia rallied to his support, lobbying the government, visiting him in prison and raising publicity. PEN's advocacy was central to the decision to release Gholipour.

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