In the United Kingdom, the monarch can appoint someone as an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) or a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in recognition of notable achievements or long-standing service.
An OBE is typically awarded to individuals who have played a significant role either locally or nationally, while an MBE usually recognises people who have dedicated years of service to their communities and made a lasting impact.
However, receiving such an honour does not mean the recipient is free from scrutiny afterward.
According to Gov UK: “Both we and the wider community expect recipients of honours to be, and to remain, good citizens and role models.”
If a recipient fails to meet those expectations, the honour can be taken away. This month alone, King Charles has removed honours from nine people.
Reasons an honour can be withdrawn
There are several situations in which a national honour may be forfeited.
Gov UK explains: “This might include being found guilty of a criminal offence, behaviour which results in censure by a regulatory or a professional body, or any other behaviour that is deemed to bring the honours system into disrepute.”