Steve Coogan has become a patron of Index on Censorship, the international organisation that promotes and defends the right to freedom of expression.
"We are delighted that Steve has agreed to be a patron of Index," said its newly appointed chief executive Jodie Ginsberg.
"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."
He has been a leading spokesman for the Hacked Off, the body set up on behalf of victims of press abuse that is campaigning for press self-regulation recognised by the royal charter system.
Among Index's other patrons are author Nadine Gordimer, actor Michael Palin and playwright Tom Stoppard.
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.
It employs a 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.
Source: Index
