Javier Solana Madariaga

Who Is Javier Solana?

Javier Solana is one of the most prominent figures in Spanish democracy and an international leader in foreign affairs. Over his career, he has held key positions in two of the world’s most important supranational organizations: Secretary General of NATO (1995-1999) and High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy of the European Union (1999-2009).

A staunch pro-European and advocate for multilateralism, Solana is renowned as a consensus-builder and skillful negotiator. He drafted the EU’s first strategic security doctrine and played a pivotal role in shaping the European Security and Defense Policy.

What is his Background?

Javier Solana began his public service career in Spain, holding positions as Minister of Foreign Affairs, Minister of Education, Minister of Culture, and Government Spokesperson. On the international stage, he led NATO through a critical period in its history and served as Commander in Chief of EUFOR during his EU tenure, enhancing Europe’s role in global security.

Since 2009, Solana has been a sought-after speaker at prestigious institutions and think tanks such as the Council on Foreign Relations and the East West Institute. Currently, he is the President and Rafik Hariri Professor at Esade’s Center for Global Economy and Geopolitics, a Distinguished Senior Fellow at the Brookings Institute, and President of the Aspen Institute in Spain.

Among his many accolades, Solana has been awarded Spain’s Grand Cross of the Order of Charles III, the Grand Cross of the Order of Isabella the Catholic, and the Charlemagne Prize, as well as international honors such as the Order of the Golden Fleece and the Order of St. Michael and St. George (UK).