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Gisèle Khoury, a renowned Lebanese journalist and founder of the Samir Kassir Foundation’s SKeyes Center for Media and Cultural Freedom, has passed away at the age of 62 after a long battle with cancer.
Gisèle Khoury, an iconic figure in Lebanese journalism, was a staunch advocate of freedom of the press and significantly contributed to the fields of media and culture in Lebanon and beyond.
Her journalistic career was strongly marked by her unwavering commitment to the freedom of the press, not only in Lebanon but also throughout the Middle East. She started her career in 1985 as a host of cultural programs on the Lebanese channel LBCI and quickly exhibited exceptional talent and dedication. Her journey led her to join the Pan-Arab media group MBC in 2002, where she played a major role in the launch of the Al-Arabiya channel, contributing in the process to the evolution of Arab media in the region.
Between 2003 and 2013, Gisèle Khoury hosted a political talk show on Al-Arabiya, providing a vital platform for public debate and maintaining her deep commitment to freedom of expression.
In 2013, she joined BBC Arabic to host The Scene, showcasing her ability to address a wide range of topics and provide diverse perspectives to her audience.
Nevertheless, her influence extended well beyond her professional career. Gisèle Khoury was also the widow of Samir Kassir, a prominent Lebanese journalist and intellectual figure who was assassinated in 2005 because of his opposition to Bashar al-Assad’s Syrian regime. This personal tragedy further deepened her commitment to freedom of the press. In tribute to her husband, she founded the Samir Kassir Foundation for Media and Cultural Freedom (SKeyes), which has become an international reference in the defense of fundamental rights, including freedom of expression and media freedom.
Gisèle Khoury embodied great moral integrity and unwavering courage. Despite personal hardships and challenges, she always stood up with determination to advocate for freedom and human rights. Her exceptional contribution to journalism and the promotion of liberties makes her an inspiring figure who will continue to influence and guide future generations of journalists and activists. With her passing, Gisèle Khoury has undeniably left a deeply-felt void in the world of journalism and the safeguarding of freedoms.
