Youssou N’Dour has been named Vice-President of the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (CISAC). The announcement was made at CISAC’s annual General Assembly in Paris, as the organisation marks its 100th anniversary.
CISAC is the leading network of Authors’ societies and represent over 5 million creators via 228 members in 111 countries with the consolidating aim of protecting copyright, strengthening collective management systems and ensuring that songwriters, composers, audiovisual creators, writers and visual artists receive fair compensation. In an evolving market where artificial intelligence has reshaped content creation and distribution, the organisation continues to advocate for transparency, strong rights frameworks and sustainable remuneration models.
CISAC Director General Gadi Oron stated: “At a moment when music creators are navigating profound technological disruption and rapid changes in how value is generated and distributed, strong and globally respected voices such as Youssou N’Dour’s are essential. His artistic stature and lifelong commitment to culture will help strengthen our advocacy for fair remuneration, transparency and robust copyright protections worldwide,”
With a career spanning over four decades, Youssou D’Nour has been crucial in influencing the global perception of African music. Winning a Grammy Award for his album Egypt, and releasing more than 20 albums, D’Nour has collaborated alongside artists such as Peter Gabriel, Sting, and Neneh Cherry. He succeeds outgoing Vice-Presidents South African singer-songwriter Yvonne Chaka Chaka and the acclaimed Mexican contemporary composer Arturo Márquez, whose terms conclude at the 4 June General Assembly.
N’Dour joins CISAC’s leadership alongside current CISAC President Björn Ulvaeus, songwriter and co-founder of ABBA, who continues to lead the organisation’s global advocacy work on behalf of creators.