Congratulation to Professor Garcia Oliva on his award
Professor Garcia Oliva receives prize for his contributions towards the protection of fundamental rights to hold and express religious and philosophical beliefs.
Professor Javier Garcia Oliva, from The University of Manchester Law School, has received a prize for his contribution, throughout his career, to furthering freedom of conscience and belief.
He has written widely on the topic, including a monograph, with Professor Helen Hall as co-author, entitled 鈥淩eligion, Law and the Constitution: Balancing Beliefs in Britain鈥�.
He has advised Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) on issues relating to conversion therapy and exorcism, and discussed questions relating to education, wearing and displaying religious symbols and freedom of expression in both academic circles and the media.
The prize was awarded by the Foundation for the Improvement of Life, Culture and Society, a well-known Spanish NGO whose input has been noted by the United Nations. The Spanish Ministry of Presidency, Justice and Relationships with Parliament participated in the ceremony, with Mr Jose Daniel Pelayo, General Secretary of Coordination and Promotion of Religious Freedom, joining this event. There were contributions from representatives of various faith communities (eg. Hinduism and Buddhism), academics from various disciplines and members of civil society (eg. the Madrid police force).
Javier was extremely honoured that this work in protecting and enhancing these fundamental rights has been recognised, and he was particularly pleased to join other prize winners, who are committed to maintaining a plural, safe and respectful culture for all people.