Speaking at a Cost explores the consequences of public speech, writing, and activism for writers and thinkers who address social and political issues.

Using activism and independence movements in Maluku and West Papua as a starting point, this edition of Read My World connects different experiences of public engagement. It builds on earlier conversations among women writers of colour about the responses to their work, the resistance they encounter, and the forms of defamation and intimidation they face.

The event is prompted by the experiences of writers and debut authors who, after publications, performances, or guest lectures, were confronted with online attacks, threats, or professional consequences. Their stories raise urgent questions: what responsibility do the platforms and institutions that invite these voices carry? What forms of protection, care, and solidarity already exist, and which are still missing?

Through short presentations and a panel discussion, we explore how emotional, legal, and social support networks can be strengthened. At the same time, we create space to share experiences, dilemmas, and strategies of resistance, with special attention to future generations of writers, artists, and creators.

With contributions from Dalilla Hermans (BE), Asmae Amaddaou (NL), and Gispa Ferdinanda Warijo (West Papua). Moderated by Mahutin Awunou.