Josep Borrell, Spanish engineer and politician, 22nd President of the European Parliament

Josep Borrell Fontelles, a distinguished Spanish politician whose Catalan name is pronounced [ʒuˈzɛb buˈreʎ funˈteʎəs], has forged a remarkable career spanning several decades across both the Spanish and European political stages. Born on 24 April 1947, he currently holds one of the European Union's most crucial and influential portfolios as the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, a role he officially commenced on 1 December 2019. A steadfast member of the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE), his extensive public service includes a notable tenure as President of the European Parliament from 2004 to 2007, and a significant period as Spain's Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation from 2018 to 2019.

Hailing from the serene Catalan village of La Pobla de Segur, Borrell's intellectual journey is marked by a diverse and rigorous academic foundation. He is not only an accomplished aeronautical engineer and economist by training but also a professor of mathematics. This multi-faceted background has often been highlighted as a source of his analytical acumen and the depth of his understanding across various complex policy areas. His entry into the political arena coincided with the transformative 1970s, a pivotal era for Spain as it navigated its delicate transition to democracy following the long years of the Franco dictatorship. Joining the PSOE, he quickly demonstrated his capabilities, becoming a key figure in the successive governments led by Felipe González.

During the impactful González era, Borrell played instrumental roles within the Ministry of Economy and Finance. He first served as General Secretary for the Budget and Public Spending from 1982 to 1984, before ascending to the position of Secretary of State for Finance from 1984 to 1991. These positions placed him at the heart of shaping Spain's economic policies during a period of substantial modernization and its deepening integration into the European community. His responsibilities later expanded to the Council of Ministers, where he assumed the portfolio of Minister of Public Works and Transport from 1991 to 1996, overseeing significant national infrastructure projects that were vital for the country's development and connectivity.

Following the 1996 general election, which saw the PSOE move into opposition, Borrell's political trajectory took an intriguing turn. In 1998, he unexpectedly won the PSOE primary election, a remarkable feat that saw him emerge as the Leader of the Opposition and the party's designated prime ministerial candidate. However, his tenure in this leadership role was relatively brief, as he resigned in 1999 due to internal party pressures and controversies involving some of his former aides. This period marked a crucial pivot for Borrell, as he subsequently directed his considerable experience and energy towards European politics.

Embracing this new chapter, Borrell was elected as a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) for the 2004–2009 legislative period. His expertise and reputation quickly garnered widespread respect among his European colleagues, leading to his election as President of the European Parliament for the first half of that term, from 2004 to 2007. In this prestigious role, he skillfully presided over the legislative body's proceedings, acting as its principal representative on the international stage and further cementing his strong pro-European convictions.

In June 2018, Borrell made a significant return to the Spanish Council of Ministers when he was appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs, the European Union and Cooperation within the new government formed by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. His extensive background in both domestic governance and European affairs made him an ideal choice to lead Spain's diplomatic efforts during a time of complex global challenges and evolving international relations. Just over a year later, in July 2019, his profound expertise and unwavering commitment to the European project were further recognized when he was announced as the European Council's nominee to become the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. He officially took office in December 2019, embarking on his current mission to lead the EU's foreign policy, guide the European External Action Service (EEAS), and represent the Union on the global stage, steadfastly advocating for its shared values and strategic interests.

Frequently Asked Questions About Josep Borrell Fontelles

What is Josep Borrell's current role?

Josep Borrell Fontelles currently serves as the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. In this capacity, he acts as the European Union's chief diplomat, responsible for shaping and implementing the EU's common foreign and security policy and chairing the Foreign Affairs Council.

When did he assume his current position as High Representative?

He officially took office as High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy on December 1, 2019.

Which political party does Josep Borrell belong to?

Josep Borrell is a long-standing and prominent member of the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE).

What significant role did he hold in the European Parliament?

He served as a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) during the 2004–2009 legislative period and was notably elected President of the European Parliament for the first half of that term, from 2004 to 2007.

Where was Josep Borrell born and what is his academic background?

He was born and raised in La Pobla de Segur, a picturesque village located in Catalonia, Spain. His academic background is quite diverse and robust, as he is an aeronautical engineer and an economist by training, in addition to being a professor of mathematics.

Did he serve in the Spanish government before his current EU role?

Yes, he held several prominent ministerial and secretarial positions in Spanish governments. Most recently, he served as Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation from 2018 to 2019. Earlier in his career, he was Minister of Public Works and Transport (1991–1996) and held key roles within the Ministry of Economy and Finance during the 1980s.