Former Italian Prime Minister Paolo Gentiloni visits IE University as Distinguished Fellow of IE School of Politics, Economics and Global Affairs
The School’s Distinguished Fellows Program connects students with prominent global leaders, enriching the academic experience and broadening perspectives.
Paolo Gentiloni, former Prime Minister of Italy and European Commissioner for Economy, will visit IE University in Madrid from February 10th to 14th as a Distinguished Fellow of IE School of Politics, Economics and Global Affairs for the 2024/2025 academic year.
During his visit, Mr. Gentiloni (Prime Minister of Italy from December 2016 to June 2018) will undertake a dynamic agenda that includes strategic meetings, advanced seminars, and interactive sessions with students, academics, and the IE Community. His visit highlights IE University’s commitment to fostering dialogue with global leaders.
During his tenure as European Commissioner for Economy (December 2019 to November 2024), Gentiloni played a pivotal role in the European Union's €750 billion economic recovery plan, NextGenerationEU, aimed at mitigating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. He ensured that fund allocations aligned with the EU's strategic priorities, emphasizing the green transition, digital transformation, and the enhancement of economic and social resilience. He has also been at the forefront of discussions to reform the Stability and Growth Pact (SGP) which sets deficit and public debt limits for EU member states.
In Madrid, Mr. Gentiloni will engage with IE University’s leadership, faculty, students and other key stakeholders to address critical topics such as global economic challenges, transatlantic cooperation, and Europe’s evolving role in a rapidly changing world. As part of his program, he will participate in advanced seminars with master’s and bachelor’s students, hold mentoring sessions with students, and meet key stakeholders of the School, among other activities.
A key highlight of the visit will be a public lecture titled "The Future of Europe," where Mr. Gentiloni will explore the pressing issues shaping the continent’s future, alongside Enrico Letta, Dean of IE School of Politics, Economics and Global Affairs and moderated by Ilke Toygür, Director of the Global Policy Center. Another anticipated session, "How to Educate Yourself to Become a Prime Minister?" moderated by Vice-Dean Borja Santos, will provide valuable insights into the skills, competences and values required for effective public leadership.
IE School of Politics, Economics, and Global Affairs’ Distinguished Fellows Program is designed for former Prime Ministers or Presidents of nations. Ivan Duque, former President of Colombia, was the program’s inaugural fellow. During his visit to Madrid, Mr. Duque delivered seminars and master classes, sharing his experience in leadership and public service while encouraging students to leverage their education to drive positive change in their future careers.
Mr. Gentiloni’s participation in this program reinforces IE University’s role as a global hub for academic excellence and interdisciplinary dialogue, offering students the opportunity to interact with one of Europe’s most influential policymakers.