France's Last Newspaper Hawker Awarded Order of Merit by President Macron

Ali Akbar, the last of France's newspaper hawkers, is recognized by President Macron with the Order of Merit for his lasting contribution to the culture of Paris.

For over 50 years, Ali Akbar, 72, has been a fixture on Paris's Left Bank, selling newspapers and engaging with the community. Soon, he will be honored for his cultural contribution by President Emmanuel Macron, who once bought newspapers from him as a student. Akbar reflects on how his profession has dwindled over the years, stating, "When I began here in 1973, there were 35 or 40 of us hawkers in Paris. Now I am alone." The rise of digital media has greatly affected his sales, which have dropped from 80 copies in an hour to around 30 today. Despite the decline, Akbar thrives on the joy of his work, saying, "I am a joyous person. And I am free."

Born in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, Akbar arrived in Europe in the late '60s and eventually made Paris his home. He fondly recalls his early days filled with life and creativity in Saint-Germain, where he mingled with writers and future politicians, including Macron. However, he laments the neighborhood's transformation, calling it a mere "tourist-town" now. His humorous anecdotes and spirit have made him a beloved figure to locals, with one resident likening him to family. As he continues his daily rounds, he cherishes the independence his role provides amid the changing landscape of media consumption.