Gisèle Khoury: A Pillar of Press Freedom Passes Away Lebanon and the wider Arab region mourn Gisele Khoury, an advocate for media and cultural freedom who died at 62 due to cancer treatment. While tributes continue pouring in for her lifelong dedication as an activist for press freedom, her legacy will live on in history books forever.
Gisèle Khoury: A Snapshot
| Personal Detail | Summary |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Gisèle Khoury |
| Age at Death | 62 |
| Profession | Journalist |
| Foundation Role | President of the Samir Kassir Foundation for Media and Cultural Freedom (SKEyes) |
| Major Contributions | Advocacy for press freedom, both in Lebanon and the wider Middle East |
| Notable Media Roles | Presenter at LBCI, Contributor to Al-Arabiya, Host at BBC Arabic |
| Legacy | An unwavering pillar of media freedom and cultural advocacy in the Arab world |
Who was Gisèle Khoury?
Gisele Khoury was an indispensable journalistic presence not just in Lebanon but throughout the Middle East. Beginning her career at LBCI Lebanon in 1985 and later going onto Al-Arabiya and BBC Arabic where she hosted “The Scene,” Gisele’s career flourished for three decades – with notable roles at each network before finally culminating at BBC Arabic where she hosted “The Scene.”
Beyond her on-screen endeavors, Khoury was also the president of the Samir Kassir Foundation for Media and Cultural Freedom (SKEyes). This foundation, named in honor of her late husband, Samir Kassir – a journalist assassinated for his outspoken stance against the Syrian regime – has been at the forefront of defending press freedom in the region.
What was her contribution to press freedom?
Khoury’s relentless advocacy for free press was unwavering. She was deeply involved in struggles for press freedom, both within her home country and in the broader Middle East. Under her leadership, the Samir Kassir Foundation emerged as an international beacon for freedom of expression and media rights.
Her strength and courage, even in the face of heartache and tragedy, remain unparalleled. They leave an indelible mark. As Ayman Mehanna, Executive Director of SKeyes, noted, she transformed tragedies into opportunities to create and defend freedom.
How did the world react to her passing?
The news of Khoury’s demise was met with heartfelt tributes from various quarters. Joseph Kossaify, president of the Press Editors Syndicate, lauded her audacity, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to freedom. Former Prime Minister Fouad Siniora remembered her as someone who firmly stood by her moral values.
Moreover, Forces of Change MP Mark Daou’s words resonate with many who knew her, expressing the immense void left by her departure: “I have lost a part of myself with the death of a friend and guide.”
What is the way forward for the Samir Kassir Foundation?
With Khoury’s passing, the foundation faces a pivotal moment. Yet, the commitment to the ideals she championed remains steadfast. Mehanna succinctly sums up their shared mission: “Gisele always wanted us to move forward, so that’s exactly what we will continue doing – keeping moving forward!”
Gisèle Khoury’s demise is undeniably a colossal loss for journalism. However, her legacy as a beacon of hope, resilience, and commitment to media freedom ensures her influence will remain impactful for generations to come.
FAQ’s About Giselle Khoury
A renowned Lebanese journalist and advocate for media freedom.
Samir Kassir Foundation for Media and Cultural Freedom.
Started at Lebanese channel LBCI in 1985.
She died after battling cancer, aged 62.
A staunch defender of press freedom and cultural advocacy.
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