2005 Gruber Justice Prize
2005 Justice Prize Recipient
Laureate Profile
In his native Malaysia and in various of the world's hot spots, attorney Param Cumaraswamy, at considerable risk to himself, has stood up for human dignity and the independence of the judiciary, which, he believes is what distinguishes a democracy from a totalitarian state. A UN Special Rapporteur on the Independence of Judges and Lawyers, his conviction are gleaned from years of study, observation, and diligent investigations into attacks on the judiciary in more than 100 countries, as well as from his own personal experience, which includes being tried for sedition, being barred from entering Singapore, and receiving death threats.
Citation
The 2005 Justice Prize of the Peter Gruber Foundation is hereby proudly presented to Param Cumaraswamy whose voice has been heard around the world for the independence of judges who are the ultimate custodians of the just rule of law that is the foundation for human rights. In a life dedicated to the defense and affirmation of justice, his fearless advocacy for judicial independence has often been at great personal risk and cost. His record serves as a call and as an inspiration to all.
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