Axel Springer CEO to Receive Israel‘s Presidential Medal of Honor
Mathias Döpfner, Chief Executive Officer of the Axel Springer media company, will be awarded the president’s Medal of Honor by Israel. president Isaac Herzog announced the honor, stating the 62-year-old Döpfner is “one of the most prominent and brave voices in Europe and worldwide in many years of fight against anti-Semitism and in his steadfast support of the State of Israel.”
Herzog emphasized Döpfner’s commitment, saying, “Döpfner acts out of deep commitment to the values of freedom and democracy as well as in solidarity with the Jewish people.” He noted that under Döpfner’s leadership, Axel Springer has consistently demonstrated a strong connection to Israel, aligning with the founding principles established by Axel Springer himself.The President highlighted Döpfner’s long-standing advocacy for stronger German-Israeli relations, and his vocal support following the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks and the ensuing conflict.Herzog described Döpfner as having “become an international symbol of commitment, courage and loyalty to his values – even in Israel’s hardest hours.”
The award ceremony is scheduled to take place later this year, with a specific date yet to be announced. The Presidential Medal of Honor is Israel’s highest civilian distinction. Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel was the first German recipient, receiving the award in 2014.This year’s other honorees include US-Israeli philanthropist and billionaire Miriam adelson, historian Dina Porat, and Israeli high-tech innovator Yossi Vardi. The information was reported by dpa.
