The prize is given to people and organisations that work to ensure that judges are free to make decisions based on the law and the facts of each case – not because of pressure from governments, politicians or anyone else.

The International Association of Judges represents 93 national associations and groups from five different continents.

Its president, Walter Barone, described the court, which is a Council of Europe body, as a cornerstone for protecting people’s freedom and democratic values in Europe.

In a video message, the court’s president, Matthias Guyomar, thanked the IAJ and said that it is important to stand with judges given the attacks and pressures they are currently facing.

The prize was collected by Ana Maria Guerra Martins, Portuguese judge at the court, at a ceremony in Lisbon.