Death of Journalist Isabelle Chenu, Head of the Culture Department at Radio France Internationale

Grief has fallen over the halls of Radio France Internationale (RFI) and the France Médias Monde group following the announcement of the death of journalist and head of the station's culture department, Isabelle Chenu, who passed away over the weekend. The late journalist was known among her colleagues for her calm voice and her thorough, insightful professional style, leaving a prominent mark on the French and international media landscape.

A career that began in southern France

Isabelle Chenu graduated from the Institute of Political Studies in Aix-en-Provence and the Marseille Journalism School. She began her career at the local newspaper "La Provence," then moved to RMC radio, before joining the Radio France Internationale team in 1991.

During her early years at RFI, Chenu contributed to preparing bulletins intended for partner radio stations, before moving into the field through reporting and investigations covering international and African affairs. Between 1997 and 2007, she worked within the political department, serving as deputy head of the desk and participating in editorial management.

A remarkable presence and steadfast support for female creators

Chenu took the helm of the international broadcaster's culture department in 2009. Throughout her leadership, she was dedicated to providing wide space for creative women—including writers, musicians, directors, and visual artists—to make their voices heard and present their visions over the airwaves.

Her colleagues and friends expressed their deep sorrow at her passing, praising her profound humanity, intellectual elegance, and exceptional management and relationships with her peers and interviewees, while extending their heartfelt condolences to her daughter, her husband, and all her family members and loved ones.