João Vale de Almeida

Biography

João Vale de Almeida is one of Europe’s most experienced diplomats. With over four decades of experience at the highest levels of European and international diplomacy, his insights offer both an analysis of global affairs and a rare behind-the-scenes perspective on the forces shaping our world. From Brexit and transatlantic relations to the future of the global order to the priorities and nature of the world’s leaders, João explores all aspects of geopolitics.

Widely respected by politicians, fellow diplomats and observers, João decodes the complexities of diplomacy and international relations with clarity and humanity. He reflects on personal encounters with presidents and prime ministers, including Barack Obama, Angela Merkel, Emmanuel Macron, Donald Trump, Hu Jintao and Vladimir Putin. His experiences provides an insight into some of the defining events of our times, including the financial crisis, the rise of China, the post-9/11 security landscape, and the war in Ukraine, and what they say about the world.

João’s career spans key moments in recent international history. He served as the European Union’s first Ambassador to the United Kingdom following Brexit. He held ambassadorial roles representing the EU in Washington and at the UN, spanning both Obama and the first Trump administrations. Previously, as Chief of Staff to European Commission President José Manuel Barroso, he played a key role in EU foreign policy, representing the bloc at G8 and G20 summits, and helping to negotiate the Treaty of Lisbon. He has worked under four Commission Presidents and coordinated with world leaders across every populated continent.

The Divorce of Nations - A Diplomat’s Inside View as the Global Order Collapses is João’s widely-praised examination of the fractures reshaping international relations. The book combines first-hand observations of key moments and early warnings, of how and why nations and groups have drifted apart, and how the divisions might be healed.

Now retired from active diplomatic service, João continues to be involved in the global discourse through academic and advisory roles. He is a Visiting Fellow at Trinity College, University of Cambridge, and has held senior teaching positions at Columbia University. He also serves as a senior advisor to the European Policy Centre and a trustee of the Oceano Azul Foundation.