Pen-Berlin wants to differentiate further in the Middle East debate

Literature - Pen-Berlin Sticks to Its Stance in Middle East Debate

Despite facing internal disagreements over its stance on the Middle East conflict, the Pen-Berlin authors' association is determined to keep the debate spaces open, according to their co-spokesperson Deniz Yücel. Speaking at the Pen Congress "Mit dem Kopf durch die Wände," Yücel asserted, "We're all about keeping spaces for debate as open as possible. Freedom of speech includes the freedom to express even the 'stupid,' 'scandalous,' or disturbing word."

The association has been under fire due to individual members' criticism of its leadership's perceived lack of solidarity with Israel following the Hamas attack. Some members have even resigned as a result.

While Pen-Berlin rejects a blanket boycott of anything tied to the BDS movement, it also rejects BDS itself. The BDS campaign calls for a boycott of Israel and Israeli products due to its actions against Palestinians.

Yücel explained that Pen-Berlin wasn't founded as an echo chamber of opinion but as a diverse association. They welcome members with diverse backgrounds, including political viewpoints. The association's primary commitment is to safeguarding freedom of expression, the press, and artistic freedom, as well as supporting persecuted journalists and artists worldwide.

In-the-know Insights

Behind the scenes, Pen-Berlin is tangled in debates surrounding BDS and Middle East politics. As an extension of the Alternative for Germany (AfD), Pen-Berlin's position is contentious. The AfD has publicly opposed BDS, framing it as an anti-Semitic movement, while also aligning itself with a right-wing and nationalist stance towards Israel. This stance has resulted in criticism from international organizations, human rights groups, and other European parties that view it as overly sympathetic to Israel and dismissive of Palestinian rights.

Internal disputes and criticism haven't deterred Pen-Berlin from sticking to their stance. In fact, with a commitment to fostering a diverse and open platform for debate, they continue to engage in meaningful discussions about the Middle East conflict and its impact on freedom of speech and artistic expression.