Awarded The Legion d’Honneur

In November 2022, the founder of Save Elephant Foundation, Saengduean Lek Chailert was honored to receive the Legion d’Honneur, the highest national decoration of the French Republic. This prestigious award from the French government was presented by President Emmanuel Macron at Chakrabhand Palace, Bangkok.

“THE LEGION OF HONOUR” was established by King Napoleon Bonaparte on May 19, 1802 to offer public recognition toward excellent civil or military conduct of the French people. It acknowledged those people who have made a difference and contributed to strengthening the reputation and image of France both within and outside the country. At present, the circle of recipients of this insignia has been expanded to include foreigners who have made great contributions to society and their country.

Message from Saengduean Lek Chailert

“On behalf of our organization, Save Elephant Foundation, and as a representative of the Thai people, I am overwhelmed by this award by the French government, by his Excellency President Macron, and to the French Embassy who has granted to me this high honor.

Thank you for acknowledging and valuing the work of a small global citizen as myself. We are grateful for this award and will not rest on it’s laurel, but rather strive to embody it’s vision, and, for my part, to foster change and rebalance in our relationship to the natural world. I can only hope to inspire other people to rise to the challenge of our times, to accept our responsibility to the Earth and to create a safe and better future for all. Thank you to all who remain behind the scenes, who support and encourage my work.”