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”.
What we do:
Index combines reporting and monitoring from around the world to expose and raise awareness of attacks on free speech, with the promotion of events and debate on complex and controversial issues, and direct advocacy and campaigning to drive real change in laws and policies.
We raise awareness
Index raises awareness of censorship and freedom of expression issues through interviews, monitoring, reports and in-depth policy analysis from around the world. Our award-winning magazine, Index on Censorship, and website include contributions from internationally renowned writers as well as our own correspondents.
We promote debate
The fight for free expression is not only a struggle between authoritarian states and their citizens. In a world where we are increasingly communicating online, across borders and cultures, protecting our individual right to free expression can be complex. Through journalism and analysis, high profile events and innovative campaigns, Index promotes debate and sets the agenda for issues such as hate speech, blasphemy, obscenity and online abuse.
We campaign
Index uses its advocacy, policy and campaigns to influence governments, politicians, and other decision-makers and power-holders including corporations, to influence laws, policies and decisions so that they fully respect our fundamental right to free speech in both democracies and authoritarian states. We campaign: for freedom of expression; for artistic freedom of expression; to change restrictive laws; and to raise awareness of the suppression of free speech in Azerbaijan, Bahrain and Turkey.
Where we work
We work around world, challenging threats to free expression in democracies, transition states and authoritarian regimes.
Index is an international registered charity, with headquarters in London and is supported by a mixture of grants, donations and sponsorship.
Index on Censorship is grateful for the support of:
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Liverpool John Moores University
Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency
Registered charity (England and Wales) No. 325003
Financial information
Writers & Scholars Educational Trust Report and Financial Statements
Year Ended 31 March 2015
Year Ended 31 March 2014
Year Ended 31 March 2013
Year Ended 31 March 2012
Year Ended 31 March 2011
Year Ended 31 March 2010
Year ended 31 March 2009
