Monday, 25 May 2026
Source: Middle East News Agency
French President awards Legion of Honour to Egyptian scholar
PARIS — In a remarkable gesture reflecting France’s recognition of international efforts towards peace and cultural understanding, President Emmanuel Macron has bestowed the prestigious Legion of Honour (Chevalier rank) upon Dr. Jehan Zaki, an Egyptian parliamentarian and distinguished academic. The news was officially announced on Sunday in the French government’s official journal.
The Legion of Honour, founded by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802, is France’s highest civilian distinction. It is awarded to individuals whose life’s work has significantly advanced humanity, upheld values of knowledge and equality, and promoted the principles of peace regardless of color, ethnicity, or faith.
Dr. Jehan Zaki, a renowned scholar at the Sorbonne University’s research center and former head of the Academy of Arts in Rome, has dedicated her career to promoting the values of peace, fostering cultural diplomacy, and strengthening ties between nations through research, knowledge, the arts, and intercultural dialogue. Her tireless efforts have made her a leading ambassador for Egyptian, Arab, and African culture on the global stage.
The decision to honor Dr. Zaki was made upon the recommendation of France’s Ministry for European and International Affairs, in recognition of her outstanding academic and diplomatic achievements spanning many years. Dr. Zaki is widely regarded as a free cultural voice in international forums, committed to the ideals of coexistence and cultural exchange.
An official ceremony for the presentation of the insignia will take place at the historic Legion of Honour Palace overlooking the River Seine in Paris, scheduled for the upcoming autumn. The event will gather an esteemed group of international dignitaries and cultural figures.
Dr. Zaki has previously been recognized with several international awards, particularly in France and Italy, including the Chevalier medal in 2009 from former French President Nicolas Sarkozy.
As a professor and lecturer at Sorbonne University, Dr. Jehan Zaki has left a lasting imprint on the world of academia and cultural diplomacy, using her vision and wisdom to weave the threads of mutual understanding between civilizations and highlighting Egypt’s rich heritage in global intellectual and cultural forums.