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 and political spectrum. Our Honorary Associates include MPs and peers, as well as leading figures from politics, journalism, law and the arts.
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 honorary associates hold a wide range of religious beliefs. Read more about our honorary associates and affiliated groups, and why our members support the society.