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Michel Camdessus
Michel Camdessus-IMG 3655.jpg
Camdessus at the 6th World Water Forum in 2012
Managing Director of the
International Monetary Fund
In office
16 January 1987 – 14 February 2000
Preceded by Jacques de Larosière
Succeeded by Horst Köhler
Governor of the Banque de France
In office
November 14, 1984 – 16 January 1987
Preceded by Renaud de La Genière
Succeeded by Jacques de Larosière
Personal details
Born (1933-05-01) 1 May 1933 (age 92)
Bayonne, France
Alma mater University of Paris
Profession Economist

Michel Camdessus (born 1 May 1933) is a French economist. He is best known for being the longest-serving managing director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF). He held this important role from 1987 to 2000.

Before working at the IMF, Mr. Camdessus was the Governor of the Banque de France. This is like being the head of France's central bank. He was the Governor from 1984 to 1987.

Who is Michel Camdessus?

Michel Camdessus was born in Bayonne, France, on May 1, 1933. He went to the University of Paris to study. He also earned advanced degrees in economics from two famous schools in Paris. These were the Institut d'Etudes Politiques de Paris and École nationale d'administration.

What is the International Monetary Fund?

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is a big organization. It works to help countries around the world with their money problems. The IMF tries to make sure the global financial system is stable. It gives loans to countries that are struggling.

Camdessus's Time at the IMF

During his time as managing director, Michel Camdessus helped guide the IMF. He worked to solve many financial challenges around the world. One big event was the 1997 East Asian financial crisis.

Some people criticized how the IMF handled this crisis. They felt the IMF did not fully understand the unique situations in East Asian countries. They believed the IMF used similar solutions that had been used in other places, like during the Mexican peso crisis. This led to some difficulties in countries like Indonesia.

What Does Michel Camdessus Do Now?

Even after leaving the IMF, Michel Camdessus has continued to work on important global issues. He is involved in several groups that aim to make the world a better place.

  • He is the president of a social group called Semaines sociales de France [fr]. This group works on social initiatives in France.
  • He is a member of the Commission for Africa. This group was started by former British Prime Minister Tony Blair. It focuses on helping African countries develop.
  • He is also part of the Pontifical Commission for Justice and Peace. This group works on issues of fairness and peace around the world.

Helping Africa Grow

Michel Camdessus is a member of the Africa Progress Panel (APP). This is a group of ten important people. They work to support fair and lasting development in Africa.

As part of this group, he helps bring people together. He also shares knowledge and influences policies. The goal is to create lasting positive change in Africa.

Promoting Peace and Water Access

Mr. Camdessus is also on the board of directors for the Fondation Chirac. This foundation was started by former French president Jacques Chirac in 2008. Its main goal is to promote world peace.

He helps judge the Conflict Prevention Prize given by this foundation each year. He also works with the foundation's program for Water and Sanitation. This program helps people get clean water and proper sanitation.

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See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Michel Camdessus para niños

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