Charles Michel is a seasoned European statesman, former President of the European Council and one of Belgium’s most dynamic post-war political leaders. Known for his skilled consensus-building, strategic foresight and calm leadership under pressure, he has led at the highest levels of European and national politics, shaping cooperation on security, economic resilience and global challenges. His experience navigating complex multilateral negotiations makes him a compelling speaker on leadership, diplomacy and international collaboration.
Born in Namur, Belgium, Charles Michel studied law at the Université libre de Bruxelles and at the University of Amsterdam before entering public service at a young age. He was first elected to the Belgian Federal Parliament in 1999 and quickly advanced through regional and federal office, including serving as Walloon Minister for Interior Affairs and Civil Service and later as Federal Minister for Development Cooperation. His early roles deepened his understanding of governance, public policy and international law, laying the foundation for a career at the centre of European affairs.
In 2014, Charles Michel became Prime Minister of Belgium at the age of 38, making him the youngest Belgian head of government in more than a century. During his tenure, he led a coalition government, steered the country through fiscal and social reforms and confronted major security challenges. His leadership was marked by efforts to strengthen Belgium’s economic competitiveness and to build bridges among diverse political constituencies.
In 2019, he took office as President of the European Council, a role he held until November 2024 after being re-elected for a second term. In this position, he chaired European Council meetings, facilitated consensus among member states and represented the European Union on the global stage. His presidency spanned extraordinary events, including the COVID-19 recovery, the Russian invasion of Ukraine, energy and climate cooperation and debates on the future of European integration.
Charles Michel is sought after as a speaker for his first-hand insights into international leadership, strategic diplomacy and multilateral cooperation. Audiences benefit from his experience leading at the intersection of national interests and collective action, his clarity in communication and his perspective on resolving complex geopolitical challenges. He brings a uniquely European and globally engaged voice that informs, inspires and equips leaders across sectors.
