The Hilaal-e-Imtiaz (Urdu: ہلالِ امتیاز‎; transl. Crescent of Excellence; pronounced [hɪ.lɑː.lɪ ɪm.t̪ɪ.jɑːz]), also spelled and transliterated as Hilāl-e-Imtiyāz), is the third-highest (in the hierarchy of "Hilal")[2] civilian award and honour given to both civilians and military officers of the Pakistan Armed Forces by the Government of Pakistan. It recognises individuals who have made an "especially meritorious contribution to the security or national interests of Pakistan, world peace, cultural or other significant public endeavors". It is a civilian award, and not limited to the citizens of Pakistan.