Ana Palacio is a lawyer, politician, and global strategist whose influence spans law, diplomacy, and international relations. She made history as Spain’s first female Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2002 to 2004, serving a critical role in shaping the country’s foreign policy. Ana played a key part in resolving the 2002 Perejil Island conflict with Morocco and, as Spain’s appointed representative to the United Nations Security Council, gained global recognition for her leadership on the international stage.
Before her political career, Ana excelled as a lawyer specialising in European Union law. She has held senior positions within the Madrid Bar Association, the European Bar (CCBE), and as an honorary member of the Bar of England and Wales. Her legal expertise also saw her serve as General Counsel and Vice President of the World Bank, where she oversaw investment disputes and facilitated arbitration on an international scale.
In addition to her public service, Ana is the founding partner of Palacio y Asociados, a consulting and law firm, and serves as a senior strategic counsel at Albright Stonebridge Group. She has been actively involved in key global forums, including the World Economic Forum and the Atlantic Council, and contributes to prominent think tanks and advisory committees.
Ana’s contributions to international diplomacy and law have been widely recognised. She has received numerous accolades, including the Sandra Day O’Connor Justice Prize and the American Jewish Committee Ramer Award for Diplomatic Excellence. An influential thought leader, she continues to shape global discussions through her teaching roles at Georgetown University and the European College in Parma, and as a regular contributor to Project Syndicate and other leading publications.
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What topics does Ana Palacio specialise in?
Ana Palacio specialises in talking about sailing, leadership development, high-performance and more.
What is Ana Palacio's speaking style like?
Ana delivers insightful and impactful presentations, drawing on her extensive experience in law and diplomacy. Her expertise and leadership resonate, making her a compelling speaker on global issues. AI summary based on real event feedback.
Does Ana Palacio offer virtual speaking engagements?
Yes, Ana Palacio offers virtual speaker bookings for webinars, online conferences, and remote or distributed team engagements.
Ana Palacio examines the evolution of diplomacy in our interconnected world, highlighting the contemporary challenges and opportunities that the international community encounters. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the complexities of modern diplomacy and learn how to navigate the shifting landscape of global relations effectively.
Ana Palacio explores the intricate relationship between geopolitics and economics, shedding light on how global events influence emerging markets and the Ibex 35. Her insights offer a comprehensive perspective on current trends, helping attendees grasp the complexities of these dynamics. Participants will learn to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by geopolitical shifts, equipping them with the knowledge to make informed decisions in an ever-evolving economic landscape.
Ana Palacio will discuss the vital role of businesses in sustainable development, emphasising how corporate responsibility can lead to meaningful change on a global scale. Attendees will learn about the strategies companies can adopt to enhance sustainability and the impact of their actions on the environment and society. This session aims to inspire participants to integrate sustainability into their corporate practices for a better future.
