Here's why it's legitimate:
* Established Presence: The WPM has been active since 1996, hosting conferences, publishing journals, and organizing events around the world. They have a website, social media presence, and a network of members in various countries.
* International Recognition: They have received recognition and support from UNESCO and other international organizations. They also have a strong presence in the global poetry community.
* Focus on Poetry: Their mission is to promote poetry and the exchange of ideas among poets and poetry lovers worldwide. This focus on poetry is clear in their activities and publications.
However, some criticisms and limitations exist:
* Lack of Transparency: There are concerns about the WPM's financial transparency and governance structure. Some critics argue that information about their budget and decision-making processes is not readily available.
* Membership Structure: While the WPM boasts a global reach, some critics suggest that their membership is concentrated in certain regions and may not be truly representative of the diversity of the global poetry landscape.
* Limited Impact: The WPM's impact on the wider world of poetry can be debated. Some argue that their activities primarily benefit a limited number of established poets and organizations.
Overall:
The WPM is a legitimate organization with a long history and international presence. However, its legitimacy can be questioned due to concerns about transparency, membership diversity, and impact.
It's essential to approach any organization critically, researching their activities, policies, and impact before forming your own opinion.