A 30-year-old at the head of European culture: who is Glenn Micallef, the new commissioner of culture

A very young man at the head of European culture: thirty-five-year-old Maltese Glenn Micallef is the new European Commissioner for Intergenerational Equity, Youth, Culture and Sport. Born on July 30, 1989, Micallef, despite his young age, is already a prominent politician both in his home country of Malta and in the international arena, with a significant career at both the national and European level. His appointment in September 2024 as part of the new European Commission chaired by Ursula von der Leyen reflects the growing importance of youth and cultural issues for the future of the European Union. Micallef addresses crucial issues such as the balance between generations, support for the younger generation, and the promotion of culture and sport in Europe, with a focus on the challenges young people face in terms of employment and social inclusion.

His biography highlights a strong commitment to youth and cultural policies. Micallef, a graduate of the University of Malta with a degree in economics, began his career in the Maltese public sector, working in his country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reaching the position of head of the European Policy Coordination Department. In November 2020, he became head of the prime minister’s secretariat, a post he left in June 2024, when he was announced as Malta’s candidate for his country’s European commissioner post.

Micallef is the youngest of the European commissioners who will join President Ursula von der Leyen. His mandate will involve working on several fronts, including developing the skills of young people and promoting equitable access to cultural and sporting opportunities, seeking to build bridges between generations and ensure that European policies take into account the needs of all age groups. Culture and sport, areas that often intersect with European identity and social welfare, will therefore be at the center of his action.

“When we proposed Glenn Micallef’s name to the European Commission we were determined to give it a young and strong voice,” commented Maltese Prime Minister Robert Abela. “I am pleased that the Maltese candidacy has been entrusted with an important portfolio for the future of all citizens of the European Union. Glenn, I wish you fruitful work.”

A 30-year-old at the head of European culture: who is Glenn Micallef, the new commissioner of culture

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