Born on March 26, 1985, in Versailles, France, Stéphane Séjourné is a distinguished lawyer and politician affiliated with the Renaissance party. He has made significant contributions to French and European politics, currently serving as Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs in the governments of Prime Ministers Gabriel Attal and Michel Barnier since 2024. His career is marked by a strong commitment to European integration and digital innovation.
Early Life and Education
Séjourné’s upbringing was shaped by a multicultural environment; he spent his childhood in Madrid and Buenos Aires before returning to France. He later participated in an Erasmus exchange program in Granada, Spain, which further enriched his international perspective. This diverse background laid the foundation for his future career in European politics.
Early Career
Séjourné began his professional journey in public service, working in the office of Jean-Paul Huchon at the Regional Council of Île-de-France from 2012 to 2014. His talents were recognized when he became an adviser to Emmanuel Macron, then Minister of the Economy and Finance. When Macron won the presidency in 2017, Séjourné continued to serve as a political adviser, playing a pivotal role in shaping policies and strategies.
In 2019, he took a six-month leave of absence to lead La République En Marche! (LREM)’s campaign for the European Parliament elections, demonstrating his leadership capabilities and dedication to the European project.
Political Career
Séjourné was elected as a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) in 2019, where he quickly established himself as a prominent figure. He led the Renew Europe group, a liberal pro-European parliamentary faction, from 2021 to 2024. Throughout his tenure, he served on several key committees, including the Committee on Legal Affairs, the Special Committee on Artificial Intelligence in a Digital Age, and the Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality.
In addition to his committee roles, Séjourné actively participated in various delegations, focusing on international relations with regions such as Mercosur and Latin America. His involvement in the European Parliament Intergroup on Artificial Intelligence and Digital, the Intergroup on Children’s Rights, and the MEPs Against Cancer group highlights his commitment to addressing contemporary challenges in these areas.
Following Dacian Cioloş’s resignation in 2021, Séjourné successfully campaigned for the leadership of Renew Europe, showcasing his ability to unite and motivate colleagues across party lines. In May 2022, he was instrumental in negotiating the formation of the Ensemble coalition, which solidified the presidential majority in France.
At the September 2022 convention of Renaissance, he was the sole candidate for the party chair position, and his election signaled a new chapter for the party under his leadership.
Ministerial Role
In early 2024, Séjourné was appointed Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs. His responsibilities include shaping France’s foreign policy, enhancing European cooperation, and addressing pressing global issues. His close relationship with President Emmanuel Macron has positioned him as a key player in France’s diplomatic efforts within the EU.
As Minister, Séjourné has emphasized the importance of collaboration among EU member states, particularly in areas such as defense, digital policy, and environmental challenges. His role at the United Nations Security Council, where he chaired discussions on the Middle East and met with key global leaders, underscores his commitment to promoting peace and security on the international stage.
Personal Life
Stéphane Séjourné’s journey from a young boy in Versailles to a leading figure in European politics exemplifies his dedication to fostering unity and innovation across borders. With a deep understanding of both domestic and international landscapes, he is poised to make lasting contributions to the future of Europe.
