Edinburgh, in partnership with Krakow, is delighted to announce the Lord Provost’s International Residency: the first between the two UNESCO Creative Cities of Literature. Following a competitive call, emerging Polish writer Ahsan Ridha Hassan has been chosen to spend November developing his work in Edinburgh, the world’s first Creative City of Literature.

As part of his residency, Ahsan will be offered desk space and support as a Community Fellow with the Institute of Advanced Studies in the Humanities at the University of Edinburgh.

The Lord Provost's International Residency has been designed to strengthen international cooperation, while developing an opportunity for an emerging writer to create and promote his/her work.

Frank Ross, Edinburgh’s Lord Provost, said: “The work undertaken by Edinburgh and Krakow as UNESCO Cities of Literature has reinforced our partnership and allowed our creative communities to flourish and grow together. I want to congratulate Ahsan on securing this much sought-after residency and look forward to welcoming him to the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature.”

As part of the fully-funded package, the International Residency creates a framework for supporting cultural activity, sharing best practice and knowledge with local writers and facilitating integration with academic services.