In France, the Winners of the National Stage of the V International Contest "Leader of Public Diplomacy" Determined
In France, the winners of the national stage of the V International Contest "Leader of Public Diplomacy" have been determined. The results were announced in early July 2026. Three public leaders became the winners for their work in developing international cooperation, strengthening trust between peoples, and promoting humanitarian initiatives.
Strengthening intercultural dialogue based on mutual respect
In the "Cultural Diplomacy" nomination, the winner was announced as Adnan Azzam Al-Najem, a knight of the French National Order of Merit. He previously served as governor of the Sweida region in Syria, which shaped his deep practical experience in governance and resolving complex social conflicts.
In his leadership concept, Adnan Al-Najem highlights three fundamental principles: patience, deep understanding of culture, and commitment to truth. He emphasizes:
— These principles help find common ground even in the most difficult situations and create space for peaceful interaction.
Currently, Adnan Al-Najem serves as an independent expert, lives in France, and continues to develop initiatives in the fields of peacebuilding and intercultural dialogue.
Developing legal support and public trust abroad
One of the winners of the national stage was forensic expert Natalia Bokova (France). In addition to her professional legal work, she is the founder of the "Russian Library" association in Savoie, and also participates in the work of public organizations engaged in preserving Russian cultural heritage and supporting compatriots.
Her contribution to public diplomacy lies in building trust through professional interaction with French colleagues and clients, providing practical assistance to Russians abroad, and developing interpersonal dialogue. Natalia Bokova is confident that:
— Leadership in public communications is built on trust, personal example, and a willingness to help people in the most difficult life situations. It is important not only to protect the interests of those who turn to you, but also to maintain a respectful, honest dialogue between different cultures and legal systems.
Promoting the values of peace and cooperation through sports
The winner of the French national stage in the "Sports Diplomacy" nomination is Dominique Saatenang — a world champion in Kung Fu, cultural ambassador of the Shaolin Temple, ambassador of the BRICS Games, a Knight of the Cameroonian Order of Valour, and recipient of numerous international awards.
Dominique Saatenang is known as the first African to be accepted into the legendary Shaolin Monastery. Today, he is the founder and head of the International Committee of the FADAM World Games, which unites representatives from more than 180 countries, leads the Franco-African Wushu Association established in Paris, and represents France on major international sports platforms.
— In my work, I pay special attention to youth and strive to promote the values of peace, respect, and mutual understanding through sports, which, in my experience, is one of the most effective tools of soft power.
More information is available on the official website of the World Peoples Assembly and at media@world-assembly.org.
