The former EU foreign affairs chief has been elected for a second term at the helm of the College of Europe in Bruges.
Francesca Mogherini has been the Rector of the College of Europe since September 2020. She has also been director of the European Union Diplomatic Academy, implemented by the College of Europe since August 2022).
Previously, the Italian served as the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission (2014-19).
Her second five-year term at the college, seen as a “training ground” for EU officials, will begin on 1 September 2025.
A College spokesman said, “This reappointment reflects the institution’s recognition of Rector Mogherini’s leadership and her commitment to strengthening the College’s role as a centre of excellence in European studies.”
During her first term, Mogherini initiated a series of large-scale projects and deep internal transformation, said the spokesman.
These included the opening of a new campus in Tirana (Albania), aimed at strengthening the College of Europe’s role in the integration process of the Western Balkans.
The establishment, in partnership with the European External Action Service, of the European Union Diplomatic Academy is designed to train a future generation of European-minded diplomats. This project is complemented by the creation of the EU Diplomatic Programme for the Enlargement Region.
Mogherini also spearheaded what the spokesman calls “transformative actions” across the College of Europe.
Mogherini said, “I am honoured and grateful for the trust that the Administrative Council, as well as the entire College community, has placed in me over the last five years and is now extending for the next five years.”
“Leading the College of Europe, transforming it into a true laboratory of European integration, and empowering generations of diverse and talented European changemakers is a privilege and a joy every day.”
“I look forward to consolidating the projects we have collectively initiated with our students, alumni, professors, staff, and partners.”
The Administrative Council had already renewed the mandates of President Herman Van Rompuy and the second Vice-President Pawel Samecki.
