The first of its kind anywhere in the world, say the organisers, the award recognizes the role of the publisher in facilitating diverse and extreme points of view through both print and online publications. The Index on Censorship Freedom of Expression Awards are featured by the BBC, most major national newspapers, and national radio, as well as internationally, giving publishers a major opportunity to profile their work.
From Lady Chatterley’s Lover to The Satanic Verses to breaking daily news, publishers have a long-established legacy of courting controversy by giving authors a platform for free expression and public dialogue. The publishing teams responsible for bringing such publications to market do so in spite of the risk of criticism, prosecution or – in extreme cases – persecution. Yet by doing so, they play a crucial role in maintaining the fundamental rights and freedoms of a democratic nation.
“The SAGE International Publishing Award will recognize publishers that continue to support authors’ rights to free expression, and the public’s right to read and discuss those views,” said Ziyad Marar, Deputy Managing Director and Publishing Director, SAGE. “This is a fantastic opportunity to acknowledge the important and valuable contribution that our industry makes.”
In 2009, press freedom came under frequent scrutiny. Attempts to ban publication, put media gags in place, or remove published content are frequent and global. Index On Censorship has played a key role in fighting for reforms to our legal system that will support and encourage free expression in publishing.
John Kampfner, CEO of Index on Censorship said: "We're delighted to be working with SAGE on this important award. Publishers are often the people taking risks to defend freedom of expression. Already, there has been a lot of interest in this award from publishers and the media."
Nominations for the SAGE International Publishing Award are invited now. The deadline for entries is 4p.m. on Friday 29th January. For further information and to submit a nomination, contact: awards@indexoncensorship.org
The 10th annual freedom of expression awards ceremony will be hosted by Jonathan Dimbleby at Royal Institute of British Architects on 25th March 2010. This year’s event promises to be the most important in the history of the awards, given the greatly increased profile that Index on Censorship is now enjoying in the UK and beyond.
The awards honour the courage and efforts of people all over the world who campaign for freedom of expression even in the most hostile environments.
At past events there have been poignant moments. Last year, the new media award was won by Psiphon, a revolutionary software programme that allows Internet access in countries where censorship is imposed. At the ceremony, Psiphon dedicated their award to imprisoned Iranian blogger Hossein Derakshan, who still languishes in jail.
This year the awards will be more significant than ever before with the battle against censorship intensifying.
About Index on Censorship
Index on Censorship says: “Index on Censorship is Britain’s leading organisation promoting freedom of expression. With its global profile, its website provides up-to-the-minute news and information on free expression from around the world. Its events and projects put the organization’s causes into action. The award-winning magazine shines a light on these vital issues through original, challenging and intelligent writing.”
About SAGE
SAGE says: “SAGE is a leading international publisher of journals, books, and electronic media for academic, educational, and professional markets. Since 1965, SAGE has helped inform and educate a global community of scholars, practitioners, researchers, and students spanning a wide range of subject areas including business, humanities, social sciences, and science, technology, and medicine. An independent company, SAGE has principal offices in Los Angeles, London, New Delhi, Singapore and Washington DC.”
