Anne-Claire Legendre / DR. ‹ › Anne-Claire Legendre has been appointed as the new president of the Arab World Institute (IMA) following an extraordinary board meeting on Monday to select Jack Lang's successor. This historic appointment marks the first time a woman will lead the institution, bringing with her a wealth of diplomatic experience. Legendre began her career at the French embassy in Yemen (2005-2006) before joining the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where she focused on European consular cooperation and France-Algeria bilateral relations. Legendre's career trajectory includes roles with the United Nations in New York and as an advisor on North Africa and the Middle East in Laurent Fabius's cabinet. In 2016, she became the Consul General in New York and later served as ambassador to Kuwait. She also held the position of spokesperson and director of communications for the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs. More recently, Legendre advised French President Emmanuel Macron on North Africa and the Middle East. As the IMA approaches its 40th anniversary, her appointment comes with a mandate to spearhead the «modernization of governance, streamline organizational effectiveness, ensure financial sustainability, and uphold ethical standards», according to an institute statement. Legendre's election follows Jack Lang's resignation, announced ten days earlier on February 7, amid pressure from revelations about his ties with American financier Jeffrey Epstein, who faced charges in the United States for the sexual exploitation of minors. On the eve of the new president's appointment, searches were conducted at the IMA's offices as part of an investigation into alleged «aggravated tax fraud laundering». While no charges have been filed against Jack Lang, the ongoing proceedings aim to clarify any potential connections with Epstein, as Lang's name appeared 673 times in email correspondences.
