FCC South Asia’s Waiel Awwad Elected President of International Press Clubs Association

New Delhi, India – In a proud moment for The Foreign Correspondents’ Club of South Asia (FCC South Asia), as well as for the Indian journalism fraternity, its President, Dr Waiel Awwad, has officially assumed the presidency of the International Association of Press Clubs (IAPC). He took the reins from the London Press Club, following the conclusion of the Association’s assembly meeting held in New Delhi and hosted by FCC South Asia.

Founded in 1958, FCC South Asia is one of the oldest and most respected press clubs in the region, with a long-standing legacy of fostering dialogue, defending media freedom, and serving as a platform for international correspondents covering South Asia. Hosting this year’s IAPC assembly in New Delhi marks a historic milestone in the club’s commitment to advancing global media cooperation.

The IAPC unites more than 50 press clubs worldwide, serving as a global voice for journalists and the promotion of freedom of expression. The transfer of leadership from London to New Delhi under Dr Awwad’s presidency is viewed as a symbolic strengthening of South Asia’s role in international media dialogue.

Dr Waiel Awwad, President of FCC South Asia and the new IAPC President, said, “It is an honour to take on this responsibility at such a crucial time for global journalism. The press today faces unprecedented challenges—from disinformation to shrinking freedoms—and press clubs must unite in solidarity. I look forward to working with all member clubs to strengthen cooperation, defend free expression, and ensure that journalists everywhere have the support they need to tell the truth.” 

Syrian-born geopolitical analyst and foreign correspondent Dr S. H. Waiel Awwad was elected as the president of the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of South Asia (FCC) on 24 May this year.

Based in India, he emerged as president of the Foreign Correspondents Club (FCC) of South Asia for the 2025-27 term. A familiar face on television panels and strategic-affairs forums, Dr Awwad brings more than four decades of reporting and commentary on South Asian and Middle Eastern affairs to the post.

Jaroslaw Wtodarczyk, Secretary-General of IAPC, added, “The election of Dr Awwad as President marks a new chapter for the International Association of Press Clubs. FCC South Asia’s leadership and its long tradition of supporting foreign correspondents will enrich our global network. We are confident that under his guidance, the Association will continue to grow stronger and serve as a beacon for press freedom worldwide.”