OSCE Special Representative Eva Biaudet named knight of France's Legion of Honour

VIENNA, 31 October 2008 - The French government has recognized Eva Biaudet, the OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Human Trafficking, with the award of Knight of the Legion of Honour, the country's highest decoration.

Ambassador Eric Lebedel, the Permanent Representative of France to the OSCE, conferred the award yesterday at a ceremony that recognized Biaudet's work in the fight against human trafficking.

"Through a strong social conscience, in a constructive and visionary manner, Eva Biaudet is leading the fight against human trafficking with a humanistic approach parallel to France's goals, which understands the importance of combating trafficking," said Ambassador Lebedel.

Other appointments to the Legion of Honour this year include Ingrid Betancourt, Shimon Peres and Steven Spielberg.