RIYADH: Human rights activist Ibrahim Al-Mugaiteeb received a prestigious award from the French government at a ceremony held at the residence of French Ambassador.

Presenting the award of distinction medal as officer of the National Order of Merit to Al-Mugaiteeb, French Ambassador Bertrand Besancenot said that this was a special award given by the French President to honor people who have rendered outstanding military or civilian services for the benefit of the people.

“Al-Mugaiteeb has rendered yeoman services to safeguard human rights and create an awareness among the people on how to respect human rights,” the envoy said, adding that Al-Mugaiteeb has always stood for justice and fair play. “He is a dedicated worker who always helped people in distress and extends his hands of care and love to those who need them.”

Thanking the French government for honoring him, Al-Mugaiteeb said that he deemed the award as a special recognition for his services rendered to the community. “As the President of the Human Rights First Society in Saudi Arabia, I was able to redress the grievances of several people who needed our services,” Al-Mugaiteeb said, recalling that there were tough days and now it has improved a great deal for the betterment of the people.

He pointed out that he is happy that cardinal principles of human rights such as the rule of law, freedom of association and freedom of speech are being practised now to the satisfaction of citizens and residents in the Kingdom.

Empowerment of women is a major change in the Saudi society which was welcomed by everyone in the Kingdom. “With the air of freedom spread out throughout in the Kingdom, my daughter wants to become a pilot, which is an encouraging sign for the progress of womanhood.”

There should not be gender inequality and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) should be encouraged to do better services to the community, he said.

Respecting human rights is an important phenomenon in man's life, he said, adding that such values will help form a better society.