Amnesty International Australia congratulates its Chair, Professor Terence Jeyaretnam AM, on recognition in the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours

8 June 2026

Amnesty International Australia congratulates its Chair, Professor Terence Jeyaretnam AM, on being recognised in the 2026 King's Birthday Honours, with the citation: "For significant service to social justice, and to environmental conservation and sustainability."

Amnesty International Australia Campaigning Director, Sarah Gooderham, said the recognition reflected a sustained contribution to justice and human dignity.

"Terence has brought principled leadership and a deep commitment to human rights to his role as Chair. We are delighted to see him recognised, and proud to work alongside him in the pursuit of human rights for all."

Professor Jeyaretnam said the recognition was closely connected to Amnesty's mission:

"I am deeply honoured, and humbled, to be recognised in this way. Having come to Australia with my family as refugees from war-torn Sri Lanka, the protection of human rights is not an abstract idea for me. It is something I have experienced as both fragile and profoundly important.

"I share this recognition with the many communities and organisations working to protect rights and dignity for all."

We are living through a period of rising conflict and displacement, with more than 100 million people forcibly displaced globally and fundamental rights under growing pressure. In my work on climate and sustainability, I also see how environmental change increasingly drives displacement and vulnerability, making it a question of justice as well as environment. I share this recognition with the many communities and organisations working to protect rights and dignity for all."

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