Award-Winning Journalist Alsu Kurmasheva Joins James W. Foley Legacy Foundation Board
WASHINGTON - The James W. Foley Legacy Foundation today announced the appointment of Alsu Kurmasheva, a highly respected journalist and editor with Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL), to its Board of Directors. The move brings a crucial voice - one forged in the fires of recent persecution – to an institution dedicated to protecting journalists and advocating for those wrongfully detained abroad.
Kurmasheva’s appointment is particularly poignant given her own recent ordeal. The dual U.S.-Russian citizen was unjustly detained in Russia in October 2023, enduring over nine months of imprisonment before being sentenced to six and a half years on politically motivated charges. The accusations centered around allegedly spreading false data about the Russian military, stemming from her work with a book compiling testimonies from Russians opposing the war in Ukraine.
Her release came in August 2024 as part of a high-profile prisoner exchange that also brought home Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, U.S. Marine veteran Paul Whelan,and Russian opposition figure Vladimir Kara-Murza.
As returning home, Kurmasheva has become a powerful advocate for press freedom, openly sharing her experiences to illuminate the escalating dangers faced by journalists operating in increasingly authoritarian environments.
“Having dealt first-hand with the dangers journalists confront in countries lacking strong democratic institutions, Alsu brings an vital and valuable perspective to the Foley board,” stated Diane Foley, Founder and President of the Foundation. “Her experience is becoming all too common as journalists venture into increasingly autocratic – and risky – parts of the world to keep Americans informed.”
Kurmasheva expressed her gratitude and commitment, saying, “It’s an honor to serve on the Foley Foundation board.My experiences have underscored the challenges journalists face in authoritarian regions, and I am committed to using that perspective to strengthen our efforts in supporting those who risk their lives to inform the public.”
She also currently serves on the Advisory Board of the Press Freedom Center at the National Press Club.
About the James W. foley Legacy Foundation:
The James W. Foley Legacy Foundation was established in the wake of the 2014 murder of conflict journalist James W. Foley by ISIS terrorists, who had held him hostage in Syria as 2012. The Foundation champions the cause of American hostages and wrongful detainees worldwide, while simultaneously working to enhance the safety of journalists reporting from conflict zones.
To learn more about the James W. Foley Legacy Foundation and to support its vital work, please visit jamesfoleyfoundation.org or consider making a donation here.
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