King’s Birthday Honours explained: What the ranks mean

WorldPolitics
13 Jun 2026 • 7:31 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

King’s Birthday Honours explained: What the ranks mean

  • The King's Birthday Honours have recognised 1,182 individuals from across the UK for their outstanding contributions to their community and the country.
  • The honours system includes various ranks, such as the Order of the Companions of Honour, Knight/Dame Grand Cross and Knight/Dame Commander of the Bath, acknowledging contributions in arts, science, medicine, government and public service.
  • Knighthoods and Damehoods, which allow recipients to use the titles “Sir” or "Dame," were awarded to individuals making major national contributions, including writers Julia Donaldson and Malorie Blackman and rugby league figure Kevin Sinfield.
  • Further ranks include Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE), Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) and Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE), recognising prominent national, major local and significant long-term community impacts respectively.
  • Notable recipients of MBEs this year include several Euros-winning Lionesses, such as Chloe Kelly, Michelle Agyemang, Hannah Hampton, Alessia Russo, Lauren James and Jess Carter, while the British Empire Medal (BEM) was awarded to 306 people for local contributions.

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