Felipe Gonzalez

Felipe González, was the longest-standing Spanish President from 1982-1996, he is a sought after keynote speaker.  Felipe was the President of the Commission for Global Progress of the PSOE (Spanish Socialist Worker’s Party). This body encourages debate and creates a new launch pad for ideas and proposals for political activity with which to face the challenges and problems of a changing world.

In 2007, the Minister’s Council named him plenipotentiary Extraordinary Ambassador for the celebration of America’s Independence bicentenary, which began 2010.  Also in 2007, the Heads of State and Government of the European Union, brought together in the European Council, designated Felipe González President of the Reflection Group on the future of Europe, known as the Committee of Wise Men.

Felipe was a  member of the Orientation European Committee “Our Europe”, the International Council of the Simon Peres Centre for Peace, the Interaction Council, the Madrid Club and the Montevideo Circle. He has published books and written the essays on his political career. Among the many awards he has received are the prestigious Carlomagno Prize in 1993 for his contributions to European unity and the Great Golden Cross of Merit of the Republic of Austria. In addition to many other honours, he was also named Doctor Honoris Causa by the Universities of Toulouse and Leuven.

After studying Law, Economics and Work Relations at university, he joined the Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party (PSOE) in 1963. He was elected Secretary General in 1974, starting then to work on the definition and ideological and theoretical strengthening of the party.

Felipe made an effort to participate in the political transition in Spain.  The strong cohesion of his party in the 1980s and his undoubted positive disposition facilitated his party’s triumph in the 1982 elections, obtaining an absolute majority.

He acted as President of Spain until 1996.  His time in office was defined by very significant reforms such as universalisation of free public education until the age of 16, making a university education more accessible or the establishment of a wide-ranging Social Security system. He also carried out a major industrial refurbishment plan as well as an overhaul of the Army. With regards to foreign affairs, the cornerstone of his policy was the adhesion of Spain to the European Union in 1986.

An incredibly innovative politician, Felipe can share stories of his time in the most powerful position in Span, enlightening and educating audiences on his political career and ideas of democracy. He is able to deliver a keynote speech on the economic environment, equality and diversity and environmental issues.