Behrouz Boochani granted refugee status

The New Zealand Society of Authors Te Puni Kaituhi O Aotearoa (PEN NZ Inc) is absolutely thrilled to hear of the decision to resettle Behrouz Boochani in Aotearoa. He is a writer of great importance and his activism on behalf of detainees in Australian-run detention centres is to be applauded.

Last month we gifted a membership to Mr Boochani, to welcome him to the heart of Aotearoa’s writing world and to acknowledge his status as a world-class writer with a unique voice and powerful perspective. His resettle here enriches us all.

Our thanks also go out to all those who have assisted Mr Boochani in his application to remain here, especially Ngāi Tahu, whose support of Mr Boochani has been exemplary.

Mandy Hager
President NZSA (PEN NZ Inc)

Read the Guardian article about Behrouz Boochani being granted refugee status in New Zealand