History has been made at the International Publishers Association (IPA). Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi has become the first woman from the Arab world, and only the second woman ever, to be appointed IPA President since the organization was founded in 1896. The historic announcement was made at the virtual General Assembly Congress (GAC) of IPA on Sunday.
Sheikha Bodour, who will formally take over as IPA president in January, has been serving as vice president since her election to the post at the 2018 General Assembly.
Second woman to helm IPA in 124 years
She is only the second woman after Ana Maria Cabanellas of Argentina to be appointed as President in IPA’s 124-year-history. The Argentinian had served as Vice President and President of the Association from 2004–08.
IPA is among the world’s most prestigious federations of national and regional publishers’ organizations. It is based in Geneva, Switzerland, with members comprising over 83 organizations from 69 countries
Sheikha Bodour’s appointment to one of the most significant and influential positions in the book industry, marks the culmination of her years-long efforts in developing the publishing industry in the UAE, across the Gulf Cooperation Council, and in the wider Arab region.
Huge impact on UAE
Sheikha Bodour’s achievements over the years have had a huge impact on the UAE’s cultural offerings. The IPA President-elect founded the Emirates Publishers Association (EPA) in 2009 which gained full membership of IPA in 2012.
Her continuous efforts in boosting Sharjah’s onward journey of cultural development by enhancing its publishing landscape played a vital role in the city’s selection as the UNESCO World Book Capital 2019, whose advisory committee she headed. Her appointment is an international recognition of Sharjah’s strong cultural and intellectual legacy.
Humanitarian efforts
She has put in a lot of efforts to support children’s and young adults’ rights to access innovative content that meet their aspirations and can spark their creativity. She has also launched several initiatives to fulfil the goal of providing books to refugees and children affected by conflicts and wars.
Source: Forbes Middle East
