We are pleased to share that CEP Ambassador Steve Pitts has been awarded the prestigious Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette by the Government of Japan. The honour was officially presented on 25th July 2025 at a formal ceremony held at the Japanese Ambassador‘s residence in London, hosted by the Japanese Ambassador.
Steve received this award in recognition of his significant contribution to fostering professional cooperation between Japan and the UK in the field of probation and criminal justice. Over the years, his work has helped build strong international connections and shared learning across justice systems.
The ceremony was attended by family, colleagues, and close collaborators, and featured formal speeches, the presentation of the award insignia, and a reception. Ambassador Suzuki expressed his respect and gratitude for Steve’s invaluable contributions to the advancement of probation systems and the strengthening of Japan-UK relations. In response, Steve expressed deep appreciation to the many individuals in the United Kingdom, CEP, and Japan – not least at UNAFEI, the Rehabilitation Bureau, and volunteer “Hogoshi” – whose knowledge and support made his work possible.
Representing CEP at the event were Board Members Sonia Flynn and Jo Tein, with Jo delivering a speech on behalf of the CEP Board. He praised Steve‘s worldwide role as CEP ambassador and his outstanding contributions to mutual learning between Japanese and European jurisdictions. Leo Tigges, a long-time contributor to CEP’s international mission, offered personal remarks highlighting Steve’s commitment and perseverance as well as his diplomacy and gentleness, always helping his partners to take their own decisions. Jim Barton and Imants Jurevicius delivered congratulations on behalf of the probation administrations of England and Wales and of the Republic of Latvia.
Most recently, Steve Pitts and Leo Tigges co-authored the CEP report “Building Probation Capacity: What Works?”, offering insight into effective strategies for developing probation systems across Europe. The report is available on the CEP website: Read the report.
Further details about the award, ceremony, and Steve’s work with Japan are available on the Japanese Embassy’s website.
All photos courtesy of the Embassy of Japan in the UK.
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