“It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of Helen Darbishire, on Friday 18th October. Helen passed away peacefully in her home in Madrid, surrounded by family and friends.
Helen was an extraordinary leader, colleague, and friend, whose commitment to Access Info Europe and this community will be remembered by all who had the privilege of working alongside her. Helen’s visionary leadership, compassion, and dedication have left a lasting impact on all of us, and her absence will be deeply felt.
During this difficult time, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Helen’s family, friends, and loved ones. We ask that you keep them in your thoughts as they navigate through this profound loss.
In honour of Helen’s legacy, Access Info will continue to uphold the values and vision she instilled in the organisation, ensuring her work and passion live on in all that we do.”
In a tweet, Professor Alberto Alemanno paid tribute to the late Helen Darbishire, describing her “as a great European, not a stateswoman, but also an activist whose impact will remain unmatched by most political leaders.”
Helen dedicated a significant portion of her professional career to advocating for a more transparent EU. She did so with great skill, humour, expertise and charm. She played a founding role in the establishment of @Access_info in Spain.
We were delighted to have Helen joined us as a juror for the Professional Development for Environmental Journalism grant programme in 2021. Unfortunately, she was unable to continue on the jury due to illness.
On behalf of the staff and members of the board of Journalismfund Europe, I would like to express our heartfelt sympathies to her family, friends and loved ones.
We would like to express our gratitude to Helen for her dedicated efforts over the years, which have contributed to the greater good.
Ides Debruyne
Managing Director Journalismfund Europe
