French diplomat Anne-Claire Legendre has been proposed by France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot, to chair the Board of Directors of the Arab World Institute (IMA).
“I will propose this morning, through the ministry’s representative at the Institute’s Board of Directors, the selection of Madame Anne-Claire Legendre as France’s designated member and Chair of the Board,” Minister Barrot said in a statement.
According to the minister, Ms. Legendre “has the experience, qualities, and strategic vision required to assume these eminent responsibilities.” If elected, she will become the first woman to chair the IMA’s Board of Directors.
As the institution approaches its 40th anniversary, the new leadership will be tasked with implementing an ambitious reform focused on modernized governance, a more transparent and efficient organization, and the restoration of a sustainable financial path.
The minister emphasized that this governance will strengthen the IMA’s role as an open institution engaging with the Arab world in all its diversity, promoting dialogue and contemporary programming for the benefit of the public. The French government also expects the new chair to explore ways to extend the IMA’s influence beyond its walls and reinforce its role in cultural diplomacy and dialogue with contemporary Arab societies.
A career diplomat aged 46, Anne-Claire Legendre currently serves as advisor to the French Presidency for North Africa and the Middle East.
