France has honored a man believed to be the country’s last newspaper hawker, recognizing his decades of dedication and hard work. On Wednesday, 73-year-old Ali Akbar received one of France’s most respected awards at a special ceremony in Paris.
The event was held at the Élysée Palace, where French President Emmanuel Macron personally awarded Akbar the title of Knight of the National Order of Merit. The honor was given in recognition of his long service to French society and the press.
During the ceremony, President Macron warmly praised Akbar, calling him “the most French of the French.” He described Akbar as a familiar and comforting presence in Paris, especially in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés area. Macron said Akbar’s voice had become part of daily life, echoing through café terraces and busy streets for more than 50 years.
Ali Akbar was born in Rawalpindi, Pakistan. He moved to Paris in 1973 with hopes of building a better life. His early days in France were not easy. Visa problems made it difficult for him to settle, but he was determined to find honest work. His goal was simple: to support his parents and seven siblings back home.
Akbar found his path by chance. With the help of an Argentinian student who sold satirical magazines, he began selling newspapers on the streets of Paris. At the time, there were many newspaper hawkers, and Akbar quickly stood out. His friendly smile, kind nature, and strong work ethic won people’s hearts.
Every day, he walked miles through the streets of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, selling papers to everyone from local residents to powerful politicians. Over the years, he built a life in Paris. He got married and raised five children while continuing his daily routine, rain or shine.
As time passed, the newspaper industry changed. Digital media slowly replaced print. Akbar remembers a time when selling 200 newspapers a day was normal. Now, he says, selling around 20 copies of Le Monde in eight hours is common. “Everything is digital now,” he explained. “People don’t buy newspapers like they used to.”
Despite these challenges, Akbar never gave up. He believes his job is about more than money. “If it was only for money, I would do something else,” he said. “I enjoy meeting people.”
He added that his secret is simple. He tells jokes, stays positive, and creates a warm atmosphere. “I try to reach people’s hearts, not their pockets,” he said.
Ali Akbar’s story is one of resilience, kindness, and quiet dedication. His honor stands as a symbol of respect for immigrants, hard workers, and the human connection that still lives on Paris’s streets.