Joaquín Almunia

Who Is Joaquín Almunia?

Joaquín Almunia is one of Spain’s most internationally experienced politicians and a prominent advocate for the European Union project. Over fourteen years at the European Commission, he held key roles, including Vice President and European Commissioner for Competition (2010-2014) and European Commissioner for Economic and Monetary Affairs (2004-2010). A central figure in Spanish social democracy since the Transition, his leadership has left a lasting impact on European and Spanish politics.

What is his Background?

Almunia began his career as an economist at the Spanish Chambers of Commerce in Brussels and the UGT trade union before fully entering politics with the Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party (PSOE). He served as Minister of Labor and Social Affairs (1982-1986) and Minister of Public Administration (1986-1991) under Felipe González’s government. In 2004, he was appointed European Commissioner, addressing challenges such as the global economic crisis and defending the euro as both a monetary and political union. Later, as Vice President for Competition, he led significant reforms to ensure fairness in European markets.

After leaving the European Commission, Almunia has focused on research, public speaking, and writing. He is a Visiting Professor at the European Institute of the London School of Economics and author of several books, including his political memoirs, where he reflects on Spain’s modernization and the European project’s evolution.