EDINBURGH is seeking to become a "City of Refuge" for persecuted writers and their families.
The world's first City of Literature, if its civic leaders back the bid next week, would offer sanctuary for those unable to work and live safely in their country of birth.
It and Norwich, the East Anglian city which is planning a similar move, would, if successful, become the first places in the UK to secure the international designation.
Cities of Refuge are popular in European countries such as Norway and Germany, and in America and Canada.
Scottish PEN, part of International Pen, a worldwide association of writers committed to protecting freedom of expression and campaigning on behalf of persecuted writers, has developed the idea for the Scottish capital.
If the council's executive supports it, Lesley Hinds, the lord provost, would lead a wider consultation on the initiative.
This would be followed by a formal bid for the designation.
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