The Council of Bars and Law Societies of Europe (CCBE) has decided to grant its Human Rights Award 2022 to both Ukrainian human-rights lawyer Nadia Volkova and the Ukrainian National Bar Association (UNBA).

The lawyers’ group praised their courage, determination, and commitment to defending human rights and the rule of law in Ukraine.

CCBE President James MacGuill SC will present the awards during a CCBE plenary session on Friday (25 November) in Brussels.

Rule of law

“With this award, the CCBE wishes to highlight the important role that the legal profession plays for Ukrainian citizens in defending their fundamental rights,” the organisation said.

“It will also demonstrate the need to preserve the integrity of the administration of justice and the rule of law, especially in times of war,” it added.

The annual award highlights the work of one or more lawyers or lawyers’ organisations that have demonstrated outstanding commitment and sacrifice in upholding fundamental values.