Ana Palacio - Speaker

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.