José Luis Sanchis was a key figure in the history of political consulting in Spain and an international reference in electoral strategy. Recognized as one of the first professional political consultants in Spain, Sanchis participated in more than 160 electoral campaigns in over 20 countries. He was the world president of the International Association of Political Consultants (IAPC) and the secretary general of the European Association of Political Consultants (EAPC). He received several awards throughout his career. Sanchis worked with presidents, party leaders, and governments in Spain, Europe, and Latin America, including politicians such as Francisco Sá Carneiro, Adolfo Suárez, Manuel Fraga, Jordi Pujol, and Alberto Fujimori. He was the author of reference books in political consulting: "How to Win Power," "Elections," "Candidate's Manual," "Machiavelli and Borgia: Theory and Practice for Executives," "Communicating Successfully," and "Winning Power." (fb)

Today we pause to honor the birthday of our dear friend, colleague, and IAPC Board Member, Necati Özkan, who has been wrongfully imprisoned in Turkey now for over two months. His arrest was part of a broader pattern of authoritarian repression aimed at silencing opposition and dismantling democratic institutions in Turkey. IAPC continues to call for his immediate and unconditional release. IAPC stands in unwavering solidarity with Necati Özkan, Ekrem İmamoğlu, and all those unjustly detained. We urge the international community, democratic governments, and human rights organizations to continue to take action in holding Turkish authorities accountable for these anti-democratic actions. Democracy cannot thrive when opposition voices are criminalized. The IAPC remains committed to defending free and fair elections, political pluralism, and the right to peaceful political engagement worldwide. (fb)