December 2025, Madrid, Spain

During the official events in Madrid, Azamat Shambilov, President of the Centre for Development and Justice International (CDJI), was awarded the honorary badge “For the Protection of Human Rights” in recognition of his significant contribution to the promotion and protection of human rights.

The award was presented in acknowledgement of his long-standing commitment to advancing human rights and fundamental freedoms, his active role in promoting human rights education, his dedication to empowering young professionals, and his leadership in developing and strengthening human rights organisations at national and international levels.

The badge “For the Protection of Human Rights” was established by the Decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan of 22 June 2020, within the framework of the National Human Rights Strategy. Its purpose is to recognise individuals and organisations who have made a meaningful contribution to the protection of human rights, the promotion of a human rights culture, and the strengthening of cooperation between state institutions, civil society, and international partners.

The award may be granted to both national and international human rights professionals, reflecting Uzbekistan’s commitment to encouraging global dialogue, knowledge exchange, and international cooperation in the field of human rights.

This recognition highlights the importance of sustained international partnerships and reaffirms CDJI’s mission to support rights-based reforms, institutional capacity-building, and the development of professional communities committed to justice, dignity, and the rule of law.