Canivet, formerly a member of the Constitutional Court in France, was appointed to the IOC Ethics Commission in 2007 and served as its vice-chair between 2015 and 2016.

He also headed an IOC Commission last year tasked with investigating the allegations of a Government-sponsored system of doping in Russia.

No specific reason was given for the 73-year-old's resignation from these positions in December, but it was thought to relate to health concerns.

“You are renowned as a man of great integrity, with an impressive dedication to your work," said Bach. 

"The IOC will always be grateful for your wise counsel and sound advice that have guided so many of our important decisions to strengthen the credibility of the Olympic Movement.”

The Olympic Order is the highest award of the Olympic Movement and is reserved for "particularly distinguished contributions".

Other recent recipients include Rio 2016 President Carlos Nuzman and former Rio de Janeiro Mayor, Eduardo Paes.

Those present for the awarding ceremony during the World Handball Championships in Paris included French IOC members Guy Drut and Tony Estanguet as well as Prince Albert of Monaco.

French National Olympic and Sports Committee President Denis Messaglia was also present. 

“I tried to bring to the Ethics Commission that which I had learnt in my professional capacity as a judge over 40 years,” Canivet said. 

"I am very touched by this great honour that you are bestowing on me today which is testament to our spirit of friendship and solidarity. 

"I will always feel a close affinity with the IOC. 

"You can count on my dedication and commitment. 

"Let me assure you that I will wear this distinction with great pride, knowing that I have been a part of the IOC Ethics Commission.”

Former Swiss Confederation President Samuel Schmid replaced Canivet as head of the Inquiry Commission into Russian doping.