In the heart of the Russian capital, Moscow—surrounded by the enduring history of the Kremlin—takes place the renowned Red Square Book Festival, one of the most prominent cultural events in Eastern Europe. Each year, the festival brings together a distinguished array of writers, thinkers, and publishers from around the world, creating a vibrant platform for the exchange of ideas and the promotion of intercultural dialogue. Under the motto of “Free Words and Renewed Knowledge,” the festival opens to new horizons that merge local creativity with universal expression.
Within this vibrant context, the Art Literature Tent will host, on Wednesday, June 5, 2025, a distinguished literary event organized by the World Organization of Writers (WOW). The event, led by poet and artist Margarita Al, president of WOW, will take place between 15:15 and 16:00, and will present selected works by the recipients of the WOW awards over the past six years. These honorees embody poetic and narrative experiences rooted in diverse cultures, united by their shared humanity and creative depth.
Among the celebrated figures is the late Konstantin Kedrov, a pillar of poetic modernism and intellectualism in contemporary Russia. Kedrov was known for his philosophical depth and for merging poetry with metaphysics and science, creating experimental texts that pushed beyond the boundaries of conventional verse.
From Kazakhstan, Olzhas Suleimenov joins the celebration—a poet, diplomat, and thinker who built cultural bridges between Turkic traditions and the global spirit of poetry. His works reflect linguistic and spiritual pluralism rooted in his homeland.
Representing Azerbaijan, Varis Yolchuyev is a poet, translator, and publisher who played a significant role in developing contemporary literature in his country. His writings explore national memory, the pursuit of peace, and the complexities of identity.
From Turkey, Toğrul Tanyol stands as one of the prominent voices of modern Turkish poetry. His verse deals with themes of human existence, solitude, and belonging, crafted in a sensual and abstract language that reflects his inner struggles and cosmic questions.
From Egypt, Ashraf Aboul-Yazid is honored for his contributions as a poet, writer, and traveler. His works span literary journalism, fiction, and travel literature. With translations into more than 15 languages, he has become a global voice rooted in Eastern perspectives and humanist concerns.
From Nigeria, poet, novelist, and medical doctor Wale Okediran brings a powerful fusion of cultural authenticity and human insight. His works touch on freedom, traditions, and contemporary African realities. He also serves as the Secretary General of the Pan-African Writers Association, playing a vital role in supporting African literature.
Alexandra Ochirova, one of the most prominent female voices in Russian literature, is known for her contemplative and philosophical poetry, as well as her strong advocacy for beauty and justice. She is a member of various international cultural bodies and a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador.
The honors conclude with Adel Khozam from the United Arab Emirates, a poet and writer whose texts blend mysticism, philosophy, and visual aesthetics. His work in cultural media has left a distinctive mark on the Gulf literary scene.
Representatives of the embassies of these countries will be invited. The WOW-2025 Congress, which will take place in Moscow in September, will also be announced.
This gathering is a collective celebration of the power of words to transcend borders and a reaffirmation of literature’s role in building bridges of understanding among peoples. It is a symbolic moment where the voices of the world unite under one roof, expressing themselves in the universal language of poetry and creativity.
