**Last Newspaper Hawker in France Honored by President Macron**

Ali Akbar, the last of France’s newspaper hawkers, reflects on his 50-year career, the impact of digital media on his trade, and the transformation of the Left Bank.

In a heartfelt ceremony next month, Ali Akbar, the last remaining newspaper hawker in France, will be honored with the Order of Merit, a prestigious distinction bestowed by President Emmanuel Macron. Akbar, who has been selling newspapers on the Left Bank of Paris for over five decades, is not just recognized for his role as a vendor; he symbolizes a dwindling aspect of France's cultural heritage.

Starting his journey in 1973 amidst a thriving community of newspaper hawkers, Akbar recalls a bustling Paris where he sold upwards of 80 copies of Le Monde in just the first hour of its release. Today, however, he finds himself selling only around 30 copies in a single day as digital media has transformed how people consume news. "There were once 35 or 40 of us hawkers," he shares. "Now, I am alone." This statement reflects not only changing consumer habits but also a nostalgic yearning for a past where printed newspapers were woven into the fabric of daily life.

Despite the decline in sales and the overwhelming shift to digital platforms, Akbar remains undeterred by his profession’s fate. "I am a joyous person, and I am free," he expresses, highlighting the independence that comes with his work. He doesn't see the reduced foot traffic as a problem but rather finds joy in daily interactions with local patrons. He is more than a vendor; he has developed relationships with customers, often being described as a beloved figure within the community.

Originally from Rawalpindi, Pakistan, Akbar's journey to Europe included stops that shaped his character, from working on a cruise ship in Amsterdam to settling in Paris. His experiences allowed him to cross paths with notable figures, including celebrities and future politicians, including Macron himself. Akbar’s anecdotes provide a vivid portrait of a time where the Left Bank buzzed with life, literature, and creativity—elements he believes have mostly disappeared. “The place had soul. But now it is just tourist-town,” he laments, infusing his reflections with both humor and a hint of melancholy.

With President Macron’s upcoming recognition, Ali Akbar's story serves as a profound reminder of cultural practices that are fading yet deserve acknowledgment and appreciation. His enduring spirit resonates with those who cherish tradition and community amidst a rapidly evolving modern landscape.