The Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA) has unveiled the updated list of international voting members for the 83rd edition of the Golden Globe Awards, set to take place on January 11, 2026, in Los Angeles. Among this year's newly appointed members is Egyptian journalist and film critic Mohamed Abdel Galil. Abdel Galil joins an international panel of approximately 390 journalists and critics representing nearly 90 countries. Other members from the Arab world include Mohamed Hashem Abdel Salam, Hossam Fahmy, Moataz Keirat, Wael Khairy, and Rami Nawar from Egypt; Chafic Tabbara from Lebanon; Balqees Al-Ansari from Saudi Arabia; and Irfan Rashid and Raffi Boghossian from Iraq. Currently serving as Senior Producer at Asharq News, part of the Saudi Research and Media Group (SRMG), Abdel Galil also contributes to Asharq Bloomberg, where he provides analytical coverage on the entertainment economy — including film, music, and digital streaming platforms. With over two decades of experience, Abdel Galil has worked across leading Arabic media outlets including Al-Qahira, Al-Ghad, Al-Wafd, and Al-Watan (where he headed the Arts & Culture desk for over four years). His contributions have extended to Kalam El-Nas (Lebanon), Al-Qabas (Kuwait), Al-Roeya (UAE), as well as television networks such as Dream TV, Al Mehwar, Rotana, dmc, and Al-Ghad TV. He has also covered major international film festivals, including Cannes, Venice, Berlin, Malmö, Cairo, Red Sea, Amman, and El Gouna. Commenting on his selection, Abdel Galil expressed pride in joining the Golden Globe voting committee, describing the role as both a responsibility and an opportunity: "I consider this nomination a chance to represent the Arab perspective in evaluating global cinematic and television productions — showcasing the richness of diverse tastes and cultural backgrounds." His appointment aligns with HFPA's broader efforts to promote inclusivity, cultural diversity, and transparency in the voting process. Established in 1944, the Golden Globe Awards remain among the most prestigious honors in film and television. Presented annually by the HFPA, the awards serve as a key indicator during the international awards season and are widely regarded as a prelude to the Academy Awards. Abdel Galil's inclusion marks another milestone for Arab representation on the global entertainment stage and highlights the growing influence of regional voices in shaping international narratives in film and television.
