A university has paid tribute to the President of Ireland for his contribution to public life.

Michael Higgins received an honorary doctorate during a ceremony at Middlesex University in Hendon on Thursday.

In the past, President Higgins has campaigned for human rights and the promotion of peace in Ireland and other parts of the world such as Cambodia and Iraq.

He was the first recipient of the Sean Macbride Peace Prize from the International Peace Bureau in Helsinki in 1992, which recognises a person who has worked hard in resolving conflict.

The former first minister for arts and culture was inaugurated in 2011 and since then has worked towards achieving equality and justice in society.

Middlesex University Vice-Chancellor Professor Michael Driscoll said: “President Michael D. Higgins has campaigned tirelessly for democracy and the rights of people all over the world.

“Added to his distinguished service in politics and education, his contribution to public life has been outstanding.

“It’s hard to imagine a more inspiring figure for the Middlesex University law students he will graduate alongside.”