Anne‑Claire Legendre Elected President of the Arab World Institute (IMA)
The Arab World Institute (Institut du monde arabe, IMA) officially elected Anne‑Claire Legendre as its new president during an extraordinary board meeting held on 17 February 2026. Nominated at the suggestion of the French State, the career diplomat becomes the first woman to lead the institution, succeeding Jack Lang, whose resignation ends a celebrated thirteen‑year tenure praised by the board members.
Background of the Appointment
- Government endorsement: The nomination was backed by the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean‑Noël Barrot, who advocated for a fresh governance model as the institute approaches its 40th anniversary.
- Mandate: Legendre’s primary mission is to steer a structural reform aimed at modernising the organisation, improving the transparency of its operations, and restoring a sustainable financial trajectory.
Professional Profile of Anne‑Claire Legendre
| Role | Institution / Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Diplomat (career) | Various | Extensive experience in Arab‑world and international affairs |
| French Permanent Mission to the UN | New York | Served at France’s UN delegation |
| Adviser to the Minister of Foreign Affairs | – | Focus on North Africa and the Middle East (in Laurent Fabius’s cabinet) |
| Consul General | New York | Represented French interests in the United States |
| Ambassador | Kuwait | Strengthened bilateral ties |
| Spokesperson | French Ministry of Foreign Affairs | Communicated France’s diplomatic positions |
| Adviser on North Africa & Middle East | President of the French Republic | Direct counsel to the head of state (until appointment to IMA) |
Priorities for the New Presidency
- Strengthen ethical standards – reinforce codes of conduct and implement robust conflict‑of‑interest prevention mechanisms.
- Enhance the Institute’s role as a dialogue hub – deepen cooperation between France, Europe, and contemporary Arab societies.
- Promote cultural outreach – expand the institute’s cultural influence beyond its physical premises, reaffirming its place in French cultural diplomacy.
- Drive reform and openness – position the IMA as a more visible, accessible institution for a broad public audience.
Outlook
The French State expects the Arab World Institute to continue its cultural radiance while embracing a reform‑driven, open‑door strategy. Under Anne‑Claire Legendre’s leadership, the institute aims to become a more transparent, financially sound, and widely reachable centre for cultural exchange and diplomatic dialogue.
