The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Mrs Mary Robinson was today awarded UNESCO's Felix Houphouet-Boigny Peace Prize for the year 2000.
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Mrs Mary Robinson: chosen in recognition of her contribution to the defence of human rights
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A jury presided by former US secretary of state Mr Henry Kissinger chose Mrs Robinson for the annual £90,000 prize "in recognition of the great contribution she has made for the defence of human rights."
"She has shown much courage for the cause of human rights and peace. She has carried out remarkable work in difficult situations and has travelled the world for the cause of human rights which is essential for peace," said jury member Mr Mario Soares, former president of Portugal.
The winner for 1999 was the Rome-based Roman Catholic community of Sant'Egidio for its work for peace and inter-faith dialogue and understanding, particularly in Algeria and Mozambique.
AFP