Mariya Gabriel

Mariya Gabriel is President of the Robert Schuman Institute, leading its strategic development and external partnerships since November 2024. She previously served as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bulgaria (2023–2024). From 2017-2023, she was European Commissioner – first for Digital Economy and Society, then for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth – launching EU initiatives like the European Universities Alliances, the New European Innovation Agenda, and Europe’s AI Strategy. A Member of the European Parliament from 2009-2017, she was active on committees including LIBE (Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs) and AFET (Foreign Affairs).

Mariya holds degrees in political science and philology. She has received over 20 international distinctions for her leadership in innovation, diplomacy, and women’s empowerment, including the European AI Award (2024), the Vienna Economic Forum Award (2024), and multiple inclusions in 'Top 100: Europe’s most influential women in startups and venture capital'.