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About Index on Censorship

is a non-profit organisation that campaigns for and defends freedom of expression worldwide. It publishes work by censored writers and artists, promotes debate, and monitors threats to free speech. Index’s vision is that everyone should be free to express themselves without fear of harm or persecution – no matter what their views. Index on Censorship publishes an award-winning quarterly magazine, devoted to protecting and promoting free expression. Since 1972, Index on Censorship has been reporting on free expression violations around the world, publishing banned writing, and shining a light on vital free expression issues through original and challenging commentary and analysis by some of the most influential voices in literature and journalism. Index advocates for changes in law and policy to ensure governments and businesses respect the fundamental right to free speech and fights censorship in journalism, the arts, and campaigning by supporting those affected and drawing attention to the challenges they face.

Working within the Human Rights Centre Clinic is an option for undergraduate and postgraduate students to gain experience in real world issues. Through the Clinic, you will learn substantive human rights law, develop professional techniques and explore different models/theories for the effective promotion of human rights.

Who can apply?

The module-based projects are open to postgraduate students on the Human Rights Master’s programme (LLM/MA).

If you are selected to work on a module-based project then you will be automatically enrolled on the Human Rights Centre Clinic module (course code: HU902). When applying for a multi-year project, you do not need to take HU902, but can opt to do so.

When can I apply?

Applications for 2025-26 will open on 2 October 2025, after the Introduction to the Human Rights Centre Clinic session.

Applications to join all Clinic projects in 2025-26 will open on 2 October 2025. Please submit your application by Monday 6 October at 5pm
to humanrightscentreclinic@essex.ac.uk. Please send your application documents in PDF format with the file name [SURNAME]_[First name]_HRCC application.