Lawyers are and have always been the main force behind the defence of human rights. In contrast with the fame sought by others dealing with social and legal matters, who are more interested in media coverage than making an effective contribution, lawyers have always fought and devoted their energy to promoting freedom, human dignity, democracy and the defence of humanitarian values around the world.
The ethics of advocacy and its social function have often been undervalued.
The award recognises the work of lawyers, through their most representative body: the General Council of the Spanish Bar (CGAE). This association is a fine example of the work done by lawyers.
The CGAE has organized a “Human Rights Caravan”, which travels round Spain (it will be in Girona from 3 to 7 December this year) and created a Human Rights Foundation with awards presented to prominent figures in the field; it has defended and given economic and legal support to the Sahrawi people; it has helped in the social reintegration and work training of prisoners with the campaign “Togas para la reinserción”; It has organised campaigns to help lawyers suffering repression by anti-democratic governments (Pakistan, Iraq, etc.).
LiberPress France Award 2008
For all these reasons, for its social role in providing court-appointed lawyers, in assisting detainees, in legal advice services, and because of its struggle for special legal treatment for the most disadvantaged, such as the elderly, minors and victims of domestic violence, we presented the award to the CGAE.