We work in the UK and internationally to challenge religion's disproportionate influence on governments and in public life. We defend freedom and equality as a counterbalance to the powerful religious lobby and religious impulses that can threaten human rights worldwide.
We support secular cases in the courts; we lobby policy makers; and we provide a secular voice in the media. We have a 150-year track record of changing society for the better. And we have gained recognition at a global level.
The National Secular Society is a non-party-political organisation with members from across the social, religious and political spectrum.
The NSS is a democratic and independent non-profit organisation which receives no funding from government or other public bodies. Our campaigning is wholly supported by our members and supporters – people like you who share our belief in the urgent need to keep religion and politics separate.
Becoming a member of the NSS is a declaration of your belief in fairness, freedom and human rights. Make a stand. Join us and add your voice to the call for a secular society.
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We believe religion should be separated from the state and individuals should have freedom of and from religion. Secularism is an essential element in a cohesive society where citizens are valued equally.
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The NSS has been on the forefront of campaigning for a fairer, secular society for over 150 years. We have gone from being prosecuted for blasphemy to being instrumental in its abolition.
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Our members, supporters and affiliated groups come from a broad spectrum of social, political and religious backgrounds. Find out more about why they support the society.
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Our passionate Council and dedicated staff team work tirelessly for the separation of religion and state and equal respect for everyone's human rights.