November 20, 2024, New York, NY—Words Without Borders has been awarded the 2024 Hermann Kesten Prize, the organization announced today. Awarded by PEN Centre Germany, the prize recognizes organizations that have made a special commitment to persecuted writers, essayists, poets, and journalists.

At an award ceremony in Darmstadt, Germany, on November 14, Najem Wali, Writers-In-Prison Officer and Vice President of PEN Centre Germany, said of Words Without Borders:

“What [WWB] has achieved over the last two decades is beyond imagination. [ . . . ] WWB has given a voice to those whose voice cannot be heard. [ . . . ] Since 2003, the year it was founded, readers have been able to read and even write along with the world as an open book without borders, no matter where they are, no matter what language they read or think in.”

As part of the award, WWB will receive €5,000.

About Words Without Borders

Founded in 2003, Words Without Borders cultivates global awareness by offering unparalleled access to international writing in English translation. Reaching readers and students worldwide, its website and programs provide a vital platform for today’s international writers and literary translators. WWB’s programs include a Whiting Literary Magazine Prize–winning digital magazine for international literature, the WWB Campus online education program for students and educators, public literary events, and support and visibility for the field of translation through our fellowships, awards, and grants program, as well as our digital marketing activities. Words Without Borders is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

For additional information, please contact:
Contact: Anna Claire Weber
Email Address: anna@wordswithoutborders.org
Website Address: www.wordswithoutborders.org
Bluesky: @wwborders.bsky.social
Facebook: @wordswithoutborders
Instagram: @wwborders