The Evens Foundation is deeply saddened to hear of the untimely passing of our long-term partner and friend, Caroline Pauwels, who died on 5 August 2022, aged 58.

She was an exceptional human being whose strength, intelligence and sensitivity touched many people.

As the former director of journalismfund.eu for 14 years, and then as the Rector of Vrije Universiteit Brussels (VUB) from 2016 until this year, Pauwels consistently championed freedom of speech and pushed hard to ensure that independent journalism was protected, even in the most challenging circumstances.

She was the mastermind behind Difference Day, an annual event staged on World Press Freedom Day on 3 May, which the Evens Foundation has been proud to support and be a part of since its inception. She remained a visionary leader until the end, campaigning to highlight injustices and provide a platform for activists and writers from around the world.

A passionate believer in the European Union and in the power of education, she excelled in bringing people together and creating new connections. With her optimism and positive approach to enacting change, she touched the lives of many, many people and will be greatly missed.

The entire staff and the Board of Directors of the Evens Foundation express our heartfelt condolences to her children, family, friends and loved ones.