The Paraplegics’ Organisation has won the prestigious 2023 Stella Soulioti human rights award, receiving €10,000 in recognition of their commitment to advocating for the rights and social integration of individuals with disabilities in Cyprus. The award ceremony will take place at the foreign ministry on December 28, celebrating the organization’s exceptional contribution to the defense of human rights in Cyprus and honoring the legacy of Stella Soulioti, the only female attorney-general in Cyprus’ history.
Who won the 2023 Stella Soulioti human rights award?
The 2023 Stella Soulioti human rights award was won by the Paraplegics’ Organisation. This accolade, honoring Stella Soulioti’s legacy, comes with a €10,000 prize and recognizes the organization’s commitment to advocating for the rights and social integration of individuals with disabilities in Cyprus.
A Recognized Commitment to Human Rights
The Paraplegics’ Organisation has been honored with the prestigious ‘Stella Soulioti’ human rights award for this year, a tribute that comes with a €10,000 prize. The recognition is a testament to their dedicated efforts in advocating for the rights and integration of individuals with disabilities. The award ceremony is set to take place at the foreign ministry on December 28, acknowledging the organization’s exceptional contribution to the defense of human rights in Cyprus.
The award, which debuted in 2021, celebrates the enduring impact of Stella Soulioti, Cyprus’ only female attorney-general to date. Her remarkable career and dedication to public service have greatly inspired successive generations to pursue justice and equality.
A Legacy of Service and Leadership
Stella Soulioti’s life was marked by groundbreaking achievements and an unwavering commitment to her country. Her involvement with the British RAF during World War II, and her subsequent legal practice after being called to the bar at Gray’s Inn in 1950, set the stage for a series of historical firsts. She became the first woman to be appointed as justice minister in the world in 1960 and served as Cyprus’ attorney-general from 1984 to 1988. Aside from her legal career, Soulioti also made significant contributions to the Red Cross in Cyprus, leading the organization for over four decades.
Her passing in 2012 at the age of 92 marked the end of an era, but her legacy continues to resonate through awards like the one named in her honor.
The Paraplegics’ Organisation: A Beacon for Disability Rights
Established in 1980, the Paraplegics’ Organisation has been at the forefront of advocating for individuals with spinal injuries. Over the years, they have been pivotal in promoting independent living, enhancing the quality of life, and fostering the social integration of people with disabilities. Their work has not only provided tangible improvements in the lives of those with mobility difficulties but has also played a significant role in raising societal awareness and respect for the rights of the disabled in Cyprus.
The award’s evaluation committee, composed of various ministers and NGO representatives, also acknowledged the contributions of “Caritas Cyprus” and “Generation for Change CY” for their work in protecting human rights on the island.
Remembering Soulioti’s Multifaceted Impact
Stella Soulioti’s contributions extended beyond her professional achievements. Her educational background, which spanned Cyprus and Egypt, laid a foundation for her diverse career. Posthumously, her work continues to be celebrated; her leadership at the Red Cross and her political career still serve as a benchmark for excellence in public service. The Stella Soulioti award carries her spirit forward, honoring those who strive to make a difference in the realm of human rights.
1. Who won the 2023 Stella Soulioti human rights award?
The 2023 Stella Soulioti human rights award was won by the Paraplegics’ Organisation. This accolade, honoring Stella Soulioti’s legacy, comes with a €10,000 prize and recognizes the organization’s commitment to advocating for the rights and social integration of individuals with disabilities in Cyprus.
2. What is the Paraplegics’ Organisation?
The Paraplegics’ Organisation is a nonprofit organization established in 1980. They are dedicated to advocating for individuals with spinal injuries and promoting independent living, enhancing the quality of life, and fostering the social integration of people with disabilities in Cyprus.
3. Who was Stella Soulioti?
Stella Soulioti was the only female attorney-general in Cyprus’ history. She had a groundbreaking career and demonstrated a strong commitment to public service. Soulioti was involved with the British RAF during World War II and later became a lawyer. She became the first woman to be appointed as justice minister in the world in 1960 and served as Cyprus’ attorney-general from 1984 to 1988. She also made significant contributions to the Red Cross in Cyprus, leading the organization for over four decades.
4. What is the significance of the Stella Soulioti human rights award?
The Stella Soulioti human rights award was established in 2021 to honor Stella Soulioti’s legacy and recognize individuals or organizations that have made exceptional contributions to the defense of human rights in Cyprus. The award ceremony, which includes a €10,000 prize, celebrates the enduring impact of Stella Soulioti and her dedication to justice and equality. It serves as a benchmark for excellence in public service and raises awareness about the rights of individuals with disabilities.
