Index on Censorship, an international organisation that promotes and defends the right to freedom of expression, is delighted to announce that comedian, writer and actor Steve Coogan is joining as a patron of the organisation. Index was founded in 1972 to publish the untold stories of dissidents behind the Iron Curtain. Today, the organisation fights for free speech around the world, challenging censorship whenever and wherever it occurs.

Other patrons include Nobel Prize winning author Nadine Gordimer, actor Michael Palin, and playwright Sir Tom Stoppard.

Index uses a unique combination of journalism, campaigning and advocacy to defend freedom of expression for those facing censorship and repression, including journalists, writers, social media users, bloggers, artists, politicians, scientists, academics, activists and citizens. Index believes that free expression is the foundation of a free society and endorses Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which states: “Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression”.

“We are delighted that Steve has agreed to be a patron of Index,” said newly appointed CEO Jodie Ginsberg, who joined Index at the end of May. “Comedians, writers and performers often bear the brunt of attempts to stifle free expression – in both authoritarian regimes and in democracies.”

Coogan said: “Creative and artistic freedom of expression is something to be cherished where it exists and fought for where it doesn’t. This is what Index on Censorship does. I am pleased to lend my support and patronage to such an important cause.”

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