2026 Charlemagne Prize Awarded to Trustee Mario Draghi

Mario Draghi, IAS Trustee since 1998, has been announced as the 2026 laureate of the International Charlemagne Prize of Aachen. Widely regarded as one of the most prestigious awards granted in Europe, the Prize recognizes Draghi “for his exceptional achievements, his pivotal role in stabilising the European Economic and Monetary Union, and his efforts to promote European competitiveness.” 

As a member of the Board of Trustees, Draghi’s long-term commitment to international unity—the work for which the Society for the International Charlemagne Prize of Aachen has cited him—aligns closely with the Institute’s own mission of collaboration across borders, geographical and otherwise. Draghi’s experience as a celebrated economist and statesman includes roles as former President of the European Central Bank and former Italian Prime Minister. 

Michael Ziemons, Lord Mayor of the City of Aachen, explained the choice of Draghi for 2026: “Draghi is calling for a visionary agenda that addresses key social challenges at this decisive moment for Europe, such as digitalisation, energy, and innovation. This long-term perspective is valuable because it aims to tackle urgent global challenges more effectively and secure sustainable living conditions for future generations.” 

“I am very honoured to receive the Charlemagne Prize. It has shaped the history of Europe over the last 75 years,” Draghi said upon acceptance of the Prize. “We must preserve Europe and come together more closely than ever before. We must overcome our internal conflicts and vulnerabilities and grow stronger economically, militarily, and politically. Only in this way will we be able to preserve our values, our legacy, and pass them on to future generations.”

Since its establishment on March 14, 1950, the International Charlemagne Prize of Aachen has honored “outstanding personalities who have made a significant contribution to peace, unity, and cooperation in Europe.” 

Read more on the Society for the International Charlemagne Prize of Aachen website.