A human rights advocacy group has won a human rights award from the French embassy.
The embassy paid tribute to the Thai Lawyers for Human Rights Association on Tuesday, as it celebrated United Nations' International Human Rights Day.
Speaking at the award presentation on Tuesday evening, Thierry Viteau, French Ambassador to Thailand, praised the association for its defence of universal human rights, including freedom of speech and the fight against torture practices.
This was an important aspect of French foreign policy, backed by the European Union, said Mr Viteau.
The principles were enshrined in the United Nations International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which Thailand signed in 1996, he said.
"It is a part of French foreign policy to defend human rights wherever they are in jeopardy," Mr Viteau said.
Yaowalak Anupan, the association's co-founder, said the organisation provided legal assistance to citizens who had protested against the military government, as well as those charged under the lese majeste law.
Regarding the political situation in Thailand, Mr Viteau said France had taken notice of the junta's roadmap and is waiting for the government to deliver.
Mr Viteau also added France wishes to preserve close relations with Thailand.
Referring to the European Union (EU) foreign ministers' statement on Thailand last June, Mr Viteau said they advocated "a quick return to democracy through transparent elections and a speedy return to the rule of law".
The EU joined Mr Viteau in supporting Thai civil society's fight for human rights, he said.
According to a source from the EU delegation to Thailand, the EU remains concerned about the political situation in Thailand and is assisting people who carry out actions in favour of human rights.
As part of the diplomatic corps, the EU delegation took part yesterday in two seminars on human rights in Khon Kaen and Ubon Ratchathani.
The source said the EU explained its position on human rights, which is a common European position.
Aside from the embassy's award, the French Commission for Human Rights this year bestowed prizes to organisations worldwide fighting against child exploitation.
The Thai organisation, Fight Against Child Exploitation, also received an award on Tuesday.