The International Cities of Refuge Network (ICORN) is an independent organisation offering shelter to writers whose work puts them at risk of persecution and working to promote freedom of speech, democratic values and international solidarity. It supports and protects growing numbers of authors, artists and humanitarians including bloggers, journalists, reporters, translators and publishers. The network allows them to express themselves freely without fear of repercussions. Additionally, new media allow them to keep in touch with their audiences in spite of not being physically in the same place, as well as gaining new ones in their cities of shelter. The project is organised by the City of Kraków as ICORN member and the KBF and the Villa Decjusz Institute for Culture, coordinating residences and providing authors with space to work.
