Stars call for safe passage for Afghan creatives

The British Government has a duty to protect Afghan artists, writers and filmmakers at risk of being silenced, an open letter to MPs says.

Organised by Good Chance Theatre and the Index on Censorship, the letter has been signed by more than 80 film and theatre luminaries including Sonia Friedman, Colin Firth, Benedict Cumberbatch, Sir Mark Rylance and Sir Sam Mendes.

It says political and creative dissent has thrived in Afghanistan, "in a region where free expression is not always respected".

"With the Taliban takeover of the country, this rich legacy is in imminent peril. 

"We urge the British government to cooperate with the international community to create a humanitarian corridor for those seeking safe  passage out of the country."

The letter also calls on creative industries leaders to help refugees to continue their work and safeguard Afghan culture for future generations.