Margaritis Schinas appointed Distinguished Fellow by the Atlantic Council

Margaritis Schinas, co-director of the Chair on Strategic Autonomy Studies at the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences (Comillas CIHS) of Comillas Pontifical University, has been appointed Distinguished Fellow at the Atlantic Council's Europe Centre. This is one of the world's most influential international think tanks, dedicated to analysing major global policy issues and strengthening transatlantic relations.

This recognition consolidates his role as a leading figure in the debate on European strategic autonomy in a global context marked by geopolitical and economic challenges. He is also recognised for his intellectual leadership, public career and ability to influence strategic debates of global significance.

Schinas' appointment as co-director of Comillas' recently inaugurated Chair on Strategic Autonomy Studies reinforces the university's commitment to analysing and understanding in depth and with excellence the major challenges of the current geopolitical moment. Schinas will participate in forums with policy makers, business leaders, diplomats, academics and leading experts. This endorsement opens doors and facilitates high-level strategic connections, which will have a positive influence on the work of the chair he co-directs with Emilio Sáenz-Francés.

Born in Thessaloniki (Greece), Schinas has an exceptional track record in European institutions. He began his career at the European Commission in 1990 and has held various positions, including chief spokesperson under the presidency of Jean-Claude Juncker. He was Vice-President of the European Commission between 2019 and 2024, responsible for promoting the "European way of life" and coordinating key policies on migration, security, health, education, culture and skills. During his tenure, he promoted high-impact initiatives such as the European Pact on Migration and Asylum and the COVID-19 vaccination programme, consolidating his reputation as an architect of policies that strengthen integration and solidarity in the European Union.