Who returned the French Legion d’honneur awarded in 2001 in April 2018?

Bashar al-Assad returned the French Legion d’honneur in April 2018 awarded to him in 2001 for diplomatic contributions. The return followed international criticism amid Syria’s civil war highlighting tensions with Western nations. Established in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte the Legion d’honneur is France’s highest honor recognizing exceptional service. Assad’s decision reflected deteriorating relations with France due to geopolitical conflicts. The event underscores the award’s historical prestige and its role in diplomacy while illustrating how political actions can lead to symbolic gestures of protest or disassociation.