The principle of equality enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and accepted by those modern societies in which all men and women are equal before the law, is a deep-rooted tradition in Basque society.

Basque legal tradition confirms that all Basques are nobles by tradition and by Law voted by themselves, to the point of acknowledging that "the importance of Basque nobility lies in its universitas. The glory is collective."

Equality goes back centuries in the Basque Country, the fruit of gradual development over hundreds of years by generations of hardworking Basques. This equality is based on the exceptional honesty and industry shown by the Basques' forbears in all walks of life and acts as a continual reaffirmation of their original nobility.

But of course absolute equality, as conceived by some, is a utopia; in the natural course of things, merit will out. In a place like the Basque Country, part of modern western society, where everyone is born equal and have the same opportunities, social distinctions are awarded in public recognition and acknowledgement of exemplary deeds or conduct.

It is also true that people need symbols to identify their hopes and aspirations and to shape their plans for the future. By ensuring that in the Basque Country such symbols are associated with staunch, tenacious people ready to take risks and meet challenges, with people committed to their professions and with genuine social concerns, we go a long way to guaranteeing continued progress.

T he Basque tradition of equality, allied to the desire to distinguish people who achieve great things in their professional careers or in their lives in general, served as inspiration for the Distinctions and Honours included here, which are themselves designed to encourage a sense in society of virtues such as perseverance, drive, hard work, social solidarity and the recognition of merit.