The ICORN City of Refuge Project

The City of Reykjavík became a member of ICORN (International Cities of Refuge Network) in 2010. ICORN is an association of cities worldwide that offer shelter to artists, writers, human rights advocates, journalists, and musicians who are in danger in their home countries.

What is the City of Refuge project (ICORN)?

Since 2006, more than 70 cities worldwide have joined the ICORN network, and over 200 writers and artists have found refuge in these cities.

In 2010, ICORN became an independent association of cities of refuge. The cities offer shelter to writers and artists in danger. In this way the association ensures freedom of speech, defend democratic values, and show solidarity across borders.

Reykjavík's participation in the project

The City of Reykjavík provides writers with a safe place to stay and financial security while they reside in the city.

Preparations for the arrival of the first guest began in 2010, and since then, four individuals have stayed in Reykjavík through the project.

The role of the City of Reykjavík as a participating city:

  • Assist the writers with legal matters such as passport endorsements and residence permits before they arrive in the country
  • Arrange transportation and reception of the writer to the city
  • Provide the writer and their family with suitable housing and furnishings
  • Ensure the writer receives adequate financial support for their stay in the city
  • Arrange insurance and access to healthcare for the writer and their family
  • Assist the writer in adapting to the community, both socially and artistically
  • Appoint a contact person to assist the writer with legal matters

Guests of the City of Reykjavík

Related material

Contact

For more information, please contact the Human Rights & Democracy Office

  • Email: mannrettindi@reykjavik.is