Authors, Including Sally Rooney and Annie Ernaux, Call on Macron to Restore Gaza Writers Program
A group of prominent writers, including Sally Rooney and Annie Ernaux, has issued a public appeal to French President Emmanuel Macron, urging him to reinstate a program that supports Palestinian writers in Gaza. This initiative, known as the “Gaza Writers’ Program,” was put on hold due to the ongoing conflict in the region.
The Gaza Writers’ Program had been a critical platform for emerging Palestinian voices, offering them a space for creative expression and international exposure. However, as the political situation worsened, the French government decided to suspend the program. This decision has sparked concern among writers and cultural figures worldwide who fear that it undermines the importance of free expression in a region already facing immense challenges.
In a letter addressed to Macron, Rooney, Ernaux, and other signatories stressed the need for solidarity with Palestinian writers, many of whom continue to produce vital literary works despite the hardships they face. The authors argue that cultural exchange and support for creativity should not be overshadowed by political tensions, as art and literature can serve as a powerful means of resistance and communication during times of crisis.
The authors’ appeal highlights the broader role of cultural initiatives in promoting peace and understanding. By reinstating the Gaza Writers’ Program, they believe France can offer crucial support to Palestinian writers, enabling them to share their stories with the world and contribute to a global dialogue about the human cost of conflict.
