Rabat – In a historic appointment, French diplomat Anne-Claire Legendre has been named president of the Institut du Monde Arabe (IMA) in Paris, becoming the first woman to lead the institution since its founding.

The decision was unanimously approved by the IMA’s 14-member board, which is composed of representatives from France and Arab countries. 

Legendre’s nomination signals both a generational and symbolic shift for the Paris-based cultural institution dedicated to strengthening ties between France and the Arab world.

At 46, she brings a deeply strategic background shaped by diplomacy, cultural literacy, and geopolitical expertise. 

She has served as an advisor to Emmanuel Macron on North Africa and the Middle East since late 2023, positioning her at the heart of France’s regional policy-making.

Fluent in Arabic, which she learned at the Institut national des langues et civilisations orientales, and academically trained at Sciences Po and the Sorbonne, Legendre combines cultural fluency with institutional experience. 

Her career spans key postings at the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, including:

  • France’s first and youngest female consul in New York (2016–2020).
  • Ambassador to Kuwait (2020–2021).
  • Spokesperson for the French Foreign Ministry, where she led efforts to counter disinformation campaigns and helped establish a strategic monitoring unit in 2022.

Founded in 1980, the IMA has long functioned as a cultural and diplomatic bridge between France and the Arab world. 

‘Competent and deeply engaged’

Legendre’s appointment is expected to reinforce this mission at a time when cultural diplomacy is increasingly tied to geopolitical influence.

Described by a board member as “competent, substantial, and deeply engaged,” Legendre is recognized for her nuanced understanding of both the Maghreb and the Middle East, regions central to the IMA’s programming and partnerships.

Her leadership comes at a pivotal moment for Franco-Arab relations, where cultural institutions like the IMA play a growing role in shaping narratives, fostering dialogue, and strengthening soft power.