616 French Citizens Honored in 2026 New Year Légion d’Honneur Promotion

On January 1, 2026, France celebrated its traditional New Year promotion of the Légion d’honneur, recognizing 616 individuals for their outstanding service to the public and contributions across multiple sectors. Established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802, the Légion d’honneur is France's highest national distinction. This year’s promotion includes 528 knights, 70 officers, 14 commanders, three grand officers, and one grand’croix.

Notable honorees in the 2026 promotion include Franco-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal, recently released from imprisonment in Algeria, British painter David Hockney, and French singer Nolwenn Leroy. Former European Central Bank president Jean-Claude Trichet and political figures such as former ministers François Baroin and André Chassaigne were also recognized.

Jean-Marc Sauvé, the honorary vice-president of the Council of State and president of the Apprentis d’Auteuil Foundation, received the prestigious grand’croix distinction for his significant report on sexual abuse within the Catholic Church. Holocaust survivor Ginette Kolinka was promoted to commandeur, underscoring the importance of remembrance and history within the honors. The promotion also featured grand officers such as Marion Guillou and Serge Uzan.

This annual recognition highlights contributions from diverse fields including culture, health, education, and humanitarian efforts. Two presidents of associations related to the November 13, 2015 attacks received their first honors, while the honors system continues to embrace citizen nominations to promote meritocracy and public service.

With over 79,000 members to date, the Légion d’honneur remains a vital symbol of French national pride and recognition of exemplary achievement. Plans include an additional civilian promotion slated for July 2026, continuing the tradition of celebrating those who foster public interest and societal progress.