Leadership in FNF

FNF Philippines Welcomes Dr. Almut Besold, Forging Stronger Ties with the Liberal Community

FNF Philippines opened its doors to our esteemed partner organizations last August 29, 2023. The event sought to provide a space for our partners to catch up on the activities and programs currently being done by the different organizations. It also gave a chance for the local office to introduce Dr. Almut Besold, the incoming Country Director of FNF Philippines to the Philippine liberal community.

Before assuming her role as the Head of the FNF Philippine office, Dr. Almut Besold served as the Head of Office for Indonesia and Malaysia from 2018 to 2023. She also led the foundation's country office in Pakistan from 2014 to 2018. She holds degrees in Arabic Studies, Political Sciences, and Religious Studies, specializing in the Arab world and Islam, from the distinguished University of Leipzig, Germany. Her academic journey includes a Ph.D. from 2000 to 2003, with a focus on international sanctions against Libya. Between 2004 and 2013, she lectured at the Oriental Institute of the University of Leipzig. Notably, she contributed to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) during 2007/2008. With her resolute dedication to liberal ideals, Dr. Almut is committed to strengthening our ties with the liberal community and fortifying the values shared by our foundation with our partner organizations.

FNF Philippines Interim Country Director, Dr. Adam, cited how the gathering was more than just a formal introduction. It was a celebration of the diverse voices and organizations that make up the Philippine liberal community all of whom have shared commitment to the principles of freedom. The brief program provided our partners a chance to give Dr. Almut a background on their respective organizations, the activities they are currently implementing, and the projects they are planning for the future.

In his formal introduction of Dr. Almut, Dr. Adam underscored how her arrival heralds a new era for the local office; one that he knows will be a significant step towards building a more robust and resilient democracy in the Philippines. Dr. Almut reciprocated Dr. Adam's enthusiasm and expressed her eagerness to collaborate closely with our partner organizations. She affirmed how collective efforts are essential in addressing the complex issues we confront as a nation.

With Dr. Almut Besold at the helm, we stand poised to play an even more critical role in advancing our shared mission. Together, we will continue to champion the cause of democracy and the values that lie at its heart.