Kurdish PEN Centre Successfully Holds Its Twelfth Congress
On September 5–6, 2025, the Kurdish PEN Centre held its twelfth congress at the Yazidi House in Oldenburg, Germany, under the slogan “The National Umbrella.” The gathering brought together more than 120 members and guests, marking an important milestone in the Centre’s evolution. What began as a local initiative has now taken a decisive step toward becoming an international platform—one capable of connecting Kurdish writers, literature, and culture with the wider world, in line with the mission of other PEN centres globally.
The congress provided a forum for reflection on past achievements and for charting the future direction of the Kurdish PEN Centre. Delegates engaged in wide-ranging discussions on cultural work, literary outreach, and strategic priorities for the years ahead.
The event was honoured by the presence of Mr. Holger Denkmann, Head of the Cultural Department of Oldenburg Municipality, who attended as the city’s official representative. It also welcomed the distinguished thinker İsmail Beşikçi. In addition, Burhan Sönmez, President of PEN International and honorary member of the Kurdish PEN Centre, sent a message of support and solidarity. Many other PEN centres, Kurdish institutions, and cultural organizations from around the world also conveyed their congratulations through official letters and messages.
Following extensive deliberations on internal regulations and working methods, the congress proceeded to the election of a new General Executive Committee. A body of nine main members and four substitutes was elected, receiving the confidence of the assembly. With this, the formal business of the twelfth congress concluded successfully on September 6.
Later that same day, and in accordance with the bylaws, the newly elected General Executive Committee convened its first meeting. Under the chairmanship of the congress presidium—Kemal Sido, Zerdeşt Haco, and Haci Özkal—the committee distributed internal responsibilities. Ms. Rojvîn Perîşan and Mr. Mîran Abraham were elected Co-Presidents of the Kurdish PEN Centre. Mr. Azad Zal was appointed Secretary-General, while Mr. Kakşar Oremar assumed the role of Treasurer.
The General Executive Committee of the Kurdish PEN Centre, elected at the Twelfth Congress (alphabetical order):
Main Members: Azad Zal, Salih Demicer, Şîna Fayeq, Abdullah Hijab, Omer Fîdan, Dîmen Sohrabî, Kakşar Oremar, Mîran Abraham, Rojvîn Perîşan.
Substitute Members: Îrfan Babaoğlû, Ruqiya Ozmen, Sultan Yaray, Mihemed Mentik.
The Executive Committee of the Kurdish PEN Centre
Oldenburg, September 7, 2025
