Celebrating cultural diplomacy and scholarly excellence, French President Emmanuel Macron has awarded Dr. Jehan Zaki, member of the Egyptian Parliament, the Légion d’Honneur – Rank of Chevalier (Knight), one of the highest civilian honors in the French Republic.
The accolade, announced in the Journal Officiel de la République Française, recognizes Dr. Zaki’s significant contributions to the advancement of culture, scientific research, and the promotion of peace and intercultural dialogue. Her work spans decades of academic dedication, diplomatic service, and heritage preservation, with a focus on strengthening ties between civilizations through knowledge, art, and mutual understanding.
Trailblazer in Culture and Academia
Dr. Jehan Zaki currently serves as a Member of the Egyptian House of Representatives and is a key figure on the Foreign Affairs Committee. She is also the Executive Director of the Grand Egyptian Museum, one of the most ambitious archaeological and cultural projects in the world.
From 2012 to 2019, she broke new ground as the first woman to lead the Egyptian Academy of Fine Arts in Rome—a historic institution founded in 1929. Her leadership brought renewed visibility to Arab and African cultural voices in Europe, making her a pioneering figure in international arts diplomacy.
Academic Roots and Global Recognition
Educated at Helwan University in Cairo and Lumière University Lyon 2 in France, Dr. Zaki earned her PhD in Egyptology in 2000. Her career began in academia, where she served on the faculty of Helwan University before gaining lifetime membership in the Egyptian Scientific Academy, the oldest scientific body in Egypt.
In 2011, she joined UNESCO’s regional office as an advisor on World Heritage in Egypt, deepening her involvement in cultural policy and heritage conservation on a global scale.
Dr. Zaki has represented Egypt at numerous international forums, including the UNESCO Convention on the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage. Her accolades include the French Ordre National du Mérite (Chevalier) and honorary membership in the German Archaeological Institute.
France’s Highest Civilian Distinction
The Légion d’Honneur, established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802, is France’s most prestigious order of merit. The rank of Chevalier (Knight) is awarded to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to France or to causes it holds in high regard, such as education, arts, science, and humanitarian efforts.
President Macron’s decision to bestow the honor upon Dr. Zaki underscores the deep cultural and historical ties between France and Egypt, particularly in the fields of archaeology and shared heritage.
A Symbol of Cultural Unity
Reacting to the news, several cultural leaders in Cairo and Paris praised the recognition as a symbol of enduring cooperation between nations and a tribute to women’s leadership in diplomacy and cultural preservation.
“Dr. Zaki represents the very essence of what the Légion d’Honneur stands for—excellence, integrity, and service to humanity through culture,” said a senior official at the French Ministry of Culture. Dr. Jehan Zaki offer a compelling vision for how knowledge and collaboration can transcend borders.
