Executive director of the Society of Editors Bob Satchwell was today presented with an International Writers Award in recognition of his "selfless devotion to the affairs of the media".
Satchwell was presented with the prize by President of the International Court of Justice Peter Tomka at a ceremony in London organised by the International Commission of Writers.
The judges said of Satchwell: “He has consistently displayed a high degree of professionalism and effectiveness in executing the multitude of administrative duties constantly confronting him as a leader of the media.”
The award was presented at the International Conference of Jurists & Writers which was jointly organised by the International Council of Jurists and International Commission of Writers at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in London.
Accepting the award, Satchwell said: “The rule of law and freedom of expression are essential elements of any democracy.
"Both the courts and the media must be free and independent to maintain and fight for those core principles.
"That is our role in any society that seeks to be considered civilised."
J K Rowling and chairman of Zee News (Indian TV stations) Subhash Chandra also received an International Writers Award for fantasy writing and news reporting respectively.
Mexican Ambassador to UK Diego Gomez Pickering was given an award “In recognition of his lifetime contribution to journalism and writing".
Email pged@pressgazette.co.uk to point out mistakes, provide story tips or send in a letter for publication on our "Letters Page" blog
