Spain has awarded its Order of Civil Merit to Francesca Albanese, the UN special rapporteur on the occupied Palestinian territories, in recognition of her work documenting alleged violations of international law in Gaza. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez presented the honour in Madrid and praised her as “a voice that upholds the conscience of the world”.
The award, the Order of Civil Merit, was presented by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez during a ceremony in Madrid.
Sánchez said the honour reflected a moral duty not to ignore the suffering in Gaza, where Albanese has been among the most vocal international critics of Israel’s military campaign. According to reports, she has repeatedly described the conflict as genocidal and has urged greater accountability under international law.
The recognition comes as Albanese faces sanctions from the United States over her work and advocacy related to Palestinian rights. Spain’s decision signals continued support for international investigations into alleged abuses in Gaza and for stronger protection of human rights reporting.
