Villa Decius as a Place of Free Expression. Conclusion of the 91st PEN International Congress 17.09.2025
Between 2 and 5 September 2025, Kraków became the global capital of free expression. The closing gala of the 91st PEN International Congress was held at Villa Decius.
From 2 to 5 September 2025, Kraków became the global capital of free expression.
It was here that the 91st PEN International Congress took place – an event that brought together writers, poets, journalists, translators, and activists from around the world to reflect on the future of literature and the power of words in times of unrest. This year’s edition, held under the theme “Freedom of Words. Words of the Free”, carried a particularly powerful message – one of solidarity and resistance against violence, censorship, and oppression.
The closing gala of the Congress was held at Villa Decius – a place historically and symbolically rooted in the ideals of European humanism, creative freedom, and intellectual exchange. Within the historic walls of the former residence of Justus Ludwik Decius, the final words of this year’s proceedings were spoken.
The closing address was delivered by Dr hab. Dominika Kasprowicz, Professor at the Jagiellonian University and Director of the Villa Decius Institute for Culture. In her speech, she reminded us that literature – even in times of war and crisis – continues to build bridges of understanding where politics and ideology fall short.
It was here that the 91st PEN International Congress took place – an event that brought together writers, poets, journalists, translators, and activists from around the world to reflect on the future of literature and the power of words in times of unrest. This year’s edition, held under the theme “Freedom of Words. Words of the Free”, carried a particularly powerful message – one of solidarity and resistance against violence, censorship, and oppression.
The closing gala of the Congress was held at Villa Decius – a place historically and symbolically rooted in the ideals of European humanism, creative freedom, and intellectual exchange. Within the historic walls of the former residence of Justus Ludwik Decius, the final words of this year’s proceedings were spoken.
The closing address was delivered by Dr hab. Dominika Kasprowicz, Professor at the Jagiellonian University and Director of the Villa Decius Institute for Culture. In her speech, she reminded us that literature – even in times of war and crisis – continues to build bridges of understanding where politics and ideology fall short.
Prof. Dominika Kasprowicz, Director of the Villa Decius
“For us, at Villa Decius, this mission carries a special meaning. For 500 years, we have been a space of dialogue, tolerance, and cultural exchange. Today, Villa Decius supports writers, artists, and scholars from around the world, offering shelter and a place of freedom,” said Professor Dominika Kasprowicz, referring to the institution’s contemporary residency programmes and its involvement in international networks such as ICORN and Scholars at Risk.
As part of the Congress, Professor Kasprowicz also moderated one of its key debates, focusing on modern forms of censorship, disinformation, and the future of literature in a world affected by war and migration. The discussion featured literary figures from Ukraine, Belarus, Syria, Iran, and Afghanistan, who shared testimonies and reflections on the writer’s role in times of violence.
A special place in the opening ceremony was given to the words of Olga Tokarczuk – Nobel Prize laureate and member of PEN Poland – who called on writers worldwide to visit Ukraine and support its cultural life. As Professor Kasprowicz emphasized, “Each author event today becomes an act of solidarity and a fight for normalcy.”
Villa Decius – deeply rooted in the humanistic traditions of Kraków and Europe – is proud to join this mission. It stands with creators who have been forced to flee their countries, supports courageous translators, fosters intercultural dialogue, and speaks up for those whose voices are under threat. The participation of Villa Decius representatives in the PEN International Congress is not only a testimony to this responsibility but also an affirmation of its role as a vital European centre for freedom of expression.
“Let every word written and every word read be our protest against violence and attempts to silence the human voice,” concluded Dominika Kasprowicz.
Villa Decius remains open to those who believe that literature holds the power to change the world. Creative freedom and solidarity continue to form the foundation of our mission – yesterday, today, and tomorrow.
Further reading:
Article by the Polish PEN Club about the Congress: https://penclub.com.pl/sila-wolnego-slowa/
PEN International’s 2025 annual report: Identity on Trial: Persecution and Resistance: https://penclub.com.pl/2025/03/22/raport_identity_on_trial/
As part of the Congress, Professor Kasprowicz also moderated one of its key debates, focusing on modern forms of censorship, disinformation, and the future of literature in a world affected by war and migration. The discussion featured literary figures from Ukraine, Belarus, Syria, Iran, and Afghanistan, who shared testimonies and reflections on the writer’s role in times of violence.
A special place in the opening ceremony was given to the words of Olga Tokarczuk – Nobel Prize laureate and member of PEN Poland – who called on writers worldwide to visit Ukraine and support its cultural life. As Professor Kasprowicz emphasized, “Each author event today becomes an act of solidarity and a fight for normalcy.”
Villa Decius – deeply rooted in the humanistic traditions of Kraków and Europe – is proud to join this mission. It stands with creators who have been forced to flee their countries, supports courageous translators, fosters intercultural dialogue, and speaks up for those whose voices are under threat. The participation of Villa Decius representatives in the PEN International Congress is not only a testimony to this responsibility but also an affirmation of its role as a vital European centre for freedom of expression.
“Let every word written and every word read be our protest against violence and attempts to silence the human voice,” concluded Dominika Kasprowicz.
Villa Decius remains open to those who believe that literature holds the power to change the world. Creative freedom and solidarity continue to form the foundation of our mission – yesterday, today, and tomorrow.
Further reading:
Article by the Polish PEN Club about the Congress: https://penclub.com.pl/sila-wolnego-slowa/
PEN International’s 2025 annual report: Identity on Trial: Persecution and Resistance: https://penclub.com.pl/2025/03/22/raport_identity_on_trial/