Research, ideas, and leadership for a more secure, peaceful world

Event Summary

A Conversation with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot

15 minutes

The Belfer Center proudly hosted Jean-Noël Barrot, the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France, on September 25, 2025. 

In conversation with Natalie Colbert, he spoke about the risks facing democratic models of government and potential ways to protect them.

Watch the seminar with students in full below.

 

Open Access
Published:

Moderator
Natalie Colbert

Natalie Colbert headshot

Speaker
Jean-Noel Barrot

Headshot of Jean-Noel Barrot

Watch the Conversation in Full

 

The latest from Belfer
See more

The French Foreign Minister's Visit, In Photos

Natalie Colbert introduces French Foriegn Minister Barrot at the Belfer Center, September 2025
1 of 3

Jean-Noël Barrot, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France, joined Belfer Center Executive Director Natalie Colbert, for a conversation about the fundamental pillars of democracy and the importance of accountability, transparency, and truth. 

French Foriegn Minister Barrot hosted at the Belfer Center, September 2025
2 of 3

To a room full of Belfer Center fellows, faculty and students of the Harvard Kennedy School, Minister Barrot spoke about the ways in which democracy is under attack globally, and how leaders are grappling with what can be done to protect it.

French Foriegn Minister Barrot speaking to students at Harvard Kennedy School, September 2025
3 of 3

Minister Barrot called on students at the Harvard Kennedy School to question their role in democracy: whether they will be participants or actors.

Students questioned the Minister about the potential effects of France’s recognition of a Palestinian state, and global AI regulation.

French Foriegn Minister Barrot hosted at the Belfer Center, September 2025
French Foriegn Minister Barrot speaking to students at Harvard Kennedy School, September 2025
Natalie Colbert introduces French Foriegn Minister Barrot at the Belfer Center, September 2025
Headshot of Jean-Noel Barrot
Speaker

Jean-Noel Barrot