English PEN is “the world’s only international fellowship of writers, working together to promote literature and defend the freedom to write … English PEN seeks to dismantle the barriers to creative expression.” PEN provides “an active and supportive community for writers and readers around the world.”

By electing imprisoned writers like Kareem Amer as Honorary members, PEN members offer “solidarity with their international colleagues … they are sent membership cards, letters and books – this helps to lessen the damaging effects of fear and isolation, and provides hope for the future.”

Kareem’s English PEN profile: Abdul Kareem Nabil Suleiman (Kareem Amer).

Abdul Kareem Nabil Suleiman (Kareem Amer)

D.o.B.: c. 1984, Egypt

Profession: former law student at the Al-Azhyar University in Alexandria, Egypt. Amer is an Internet writer, publishing articles on his blog.

Date of Arrest: Amer was arrested on 6 November 2006.

Sentence: On 22 February 2007, Amer was sentenced to four years in prison: three years for insulting Islam and one for defaming the Egyptian president, Mubarak.

Sentence Expires: 2011

Details of Trial: Refusing to retract the articles he posted on his Internet blog, Amer was detained in a prison in Alexandria. His detention was extended until his trial in January 2007. His hearing began on 25 January 2006, and was adjourned until 1 February 2007. He was accused of insulting Islam and the President, as well as inciting hatred towards Muslims.

Place of Detention: Amer is being held in a detention centre in Alexandria, Egypt.

Conditions of Detention: It is reported that Amer has been receiving numerous death threats and has suffered from physical violence from prison guards. He is currently being held in solitary confinement despite asking to be moved to the political prisoners’ cell.

Other: He was previously held for 12 days in October 2005 for his articles on Islam and his coverage of sectarian riots in Alexandria. These articles prompted an investigation and led to his expulsion from Al-Azhyar University in March 2006 after its disciplinary board found him guilty of blasphemy against Islam.

Professional Details: Kareem Amer was a former law student at the Al-Azhyar University until his critical online articles led to his expulsion. He is known for his secular views and his critical writings about Islam and Egypt’s highest religious authorities.

Honorary Member: English Pen