Odense welcomes new Guest Writer

Alex Tor (pseud.) is a Russian journalist. For several years he has written articles on human rights. As a result of his writing, threats have been made against him and his family. In August 2012 he came to Odense, Denmark as an ICORN guest writer. This means that he will be safe during the next two years and that he is able to continue his writing and struggle for human rights.

In an interview with the Danish DR Alex Tor says that even though some might think a residency of two years might seem short, it makes a big difference to him after constantly being on the move during the last three years. For three years I have not known what the next day would bring. Compared to that situation two years is a long life. In two years I can write several articles and hopefully help more people.

Alex Tor believes that the Russian government is afraid to appear weak in the eyes of the West and that this is the reason why they react quickly when faced with criticism. When we write about killings, kidnappings or corruption they react immediately.(...) This means that Odense City of Refuge and ICORN not only helps me, but also a lot of people in Russia.