Madariaga - College of Europe Foundation

Mission Statement

The Madariaga – College of Europe Foundation is dedicated to promoting original thinking on the role of the European Union in an era of global change, engaging citizens and international partners in a creative debate on the issues that shape Europe’s future. Through research and action, the Foundation pursues a three-fold mission of challenging the citizen, empowering Europe, and preventing conflict.

Origins

Created in 1998 by former students of the College of Europe, the Foundation bears the name of the College of Europe founder: Spanish writer, historian, diplomat and philosopher Salvador de Madariaga (1886-1978). MCF continues to work in close cooperation with the College, which provides it with valuable access to a pool of academic expertise and a vast network of professors and alumni.

Governance

Presided over by the EU High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy, Javier Solana, the MCF’s Administrative Council includes distinguished personalities from a variety of backgrounds, reflecting its privileged relationship with key European and transatlantic stakeholders. The Foundation’s Administrative Council includes as members the President, the Vice-President Jean-Luc Dehaene, the Rector of the College of Europe, high-level representatives of the European Commission and European Parliament, leaders of major European and American foundations, as well as several business partners. The Administrative Council appoints the members of the Executive Committee as well as the Executive Director, in charge of the daily management of the Foundation.

Team

Led by the Executive Director, Pierre Defraigne, the MCF team works hard to inject fresh thinking into the debate about Europe’s future. The team’s diverse expertise ensures that a true variety of perspectives are brought to all the Foundation’s activities.

Partners

By means of conferences, seminars and publications, The Madariaga - College of Europe Foundation engages partners in an informed debate to raise awareness on current challenges and opportunities, with a view to strengthen the EU's commitment to greater responsibility.