Vietnamese author, journalist, and dissident Pham Doan Trang is set to receive the 2024 PEN/Barbey Freedom to Write Award from PEN America, an international pressure group representing writers, artists, and journalists. The award ceremony will take place on May 16 in New York.
Trang, who was arrested in 2020 and sentenced to nine years in prison for “anti-state propaganda,” is currently imprisoned at An Phuoc Prison in Binh Duong province, far from her home, making family visits difficult.
Known for her advocacy for democracy, human rights, and environmental issues, Trang has authored several books and participated in reports on human rights and democracy in Vietnam. Despite government persecution, she continues to inspire people with her powerful words.
PEN America CEO Suzanne Nossel praised Trang for her dedication to justice and freedom, noting her sacrifices for the greater good of Vietnam. Trang has previously expressed her desire for freedom not just for herself but for her country as a whole.
Having received numerous awards for her human rights activism, including recognition from the U.S. State Department and the Committee to Protect Journalists, Trang’s lawyer and friend will accept the PEN/Barbey award on her behalf.
PEN America continues to advocate for Trang’s release and the repeal of the laws under which she was prosecuted.
Translated by RFA Vietnamese. Edited by Mike Firn and Elaine Chan.