Egyptian publishers Yehya Fekry and the late Mohamed Hashem were honored at the 2026 IPA Prix Voltaire Awards for defending freedom of expression and independent publishing worldwide.
WEBDESK – UzGul – MEDIABITES NEWS
The International Publishers Association (IPA) honored two Egyptian publishing figures at the 2026 IPA Prix Voltaire Awards during the opening day of the 35th International Publishers Congress in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The awards recognize publishers who have shown exceptional courage in defending freedom of expression and the right to publish despite facing significant challenges.
This year’s ceremony marked a milestone for the prestigious award, as the IPA celebrated the 20th presentation of the Prix Voltaire.
Yehya Fekry Named 2026 IPA Prix Voltaire Laureate
Yehya Fekry, co-founder of Cairo-based El Maraya for Arts & Culture, was announced as the 2026 IPA Prix Voltaire Laureate.
Fekry established the independent publishing house in 2016, and the company has since published more than 250 titles while maintaining an independent editorial approach. The IPA recognized his commitment to protecting freedom of expression and supporting independent publishing despite years of institutional pressure.
Publishing House Faced Years of Restrictions
According to the IPA, El Maraya for Arts & Culture has faced repeated challenges over the years.
Its headquarters were reportedly raided five times between 2018 and 2024, with staff members arrested during some operations. Authorities also seized copies of selected publications and prohibited the company from republishing certain books.
The publishing house was also excluded from participating in the Cairo International Book Fair in both 2025 and 2026.
IPA Commends Commitment to Free Expression
While announcing the award, the International Publishers Association praised Yehya Fekry and his team for their resilience.
The organization said the award recognizes publishers who continue defending the freedom to publish even under difficult circumstances and congratulated El Maraya for its continued contribution to independent literature and cultural dialogue.
Mohamed Hashem Receives Posthumous Special Award
The IPA also announced Mohamed Hashem, founder and director of Merit Publishing House, as the recipient of the 2026 IPA Prix Voltaire Special Award.
The honour was presented posthumously following Hashem’s death in 2025. His daughter, Mirette Hashem, accepted the award on behalf of the family during the ceremony in Kuala Lumpur.
Legacy of Literary Freedom Recognized
Mohamed Hashem was widely regarded as one of the Arab world’s most influential publishers and cultural activists.
For more than 25 years, he published hundreds of books focusing on contemporary literature and emerging writers. Merit Publishing House became known for supporting creative expression while encouraging open discussion on cultural, social and political issues.
Merit Publishing House Became Cultural Landmark
The IPA noted that Merit Publishing House evolved beyond a traditional publishing company into a vibrant cultural meeting place.
The organization described it as an uncensored literary space where writers, artists and intellectuals gathered to exchange ideas and encourage independent thinking.
During Egypt’s January 25 Revolution in 2011, the publishing house reportedly served as a meeting point for activists despite growing pressure from authorities.
Honoring a Lifetime of Courage
In announcing the Special Award, the IPA said Mohamed Hashem’s work was about far more than publishing books.
The association highlighted his lifelong dedication to defending the right to imagine, question and speak freely, describing his contributions as instrumental in reshaping Egypt’s modern publishing landscape.
International Publishers Congress Opens in Kuala Lumpur
The awards ceremony took place during the opening day of the 35th International Publishers Congress in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
The global event brings together publishers, authors and industry leaders from around the world to discuss publishing trends, intellectual freedom and the future of the publishing industry.
Freedom to Publish Remains Central Theme
The 2026 Prix Voltaire ceremony once again highlighted the importance of protecting freedom of expression across the global publishing community.
By recognizing Yehya Fekry and the late Mohamed Hashem, the International Publishers Association reaffirmed its support for publishers who continue to defend independent voices and literary freedom despite political, legal and institutional challenges.
