Julian Francis, a British national who has been closely involved with development work in Bangladesh for near 50 years, has been awarded an OBE (Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) in the UK.
The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) announced the award for Francis, and other honours for 92 others, in recognition of truly exceptional and outstanding service to Britain internationally and overseas, read a press release.
Julian Francis is recognized for his outstanding contribution to Bangladesh since its independence. He first came to Bangladesh after supporting refugees who had taken shelter in India during Bangladesh’s Liberation War.
He played a leading role in delivering humanitarian aid to some 600,000 people of the 10 million refugees affected in 1971.
Using his knowledge and understanding of Bangladeshi society and culture, he has been a key figure in delivering on a wide range of humanitarian and development programs providing vital health, education and livelihoods support to some of the poorest and most marginalized communities in the country.
On learning of his award Francis said: "It is indeed a great honour to be recognised in this way. At the same time, I honour the many colleagues who, over the years, have worked closely with me, at times moulding my thoughts and actions to improve the lives of the most disadvantaged.”
