Rama Yade entered the French government in 2007 as Secretary of State for Human Rights, a role in which she notably opposed the state visit of Muammar Gaddafi due to Libya's human rights record. A career shaped by transitions between international diplomacy and domestic policy, her trajectory moved through the Union for a Popular Movement and the Radical Party.
Early Life and Education
Born in 1976 in Dakar, Senegal, Yade moved to France at age eight. Her parents, Aminata Kandji and Djibril Yade, were both professors. Following her father's departure when she was fourteen, she resided in a council flat in Colombes. She attended Catholic schools before graduating from the Institut d'Études Politiques de Paris, commonly known as Sciences Po, in 2000.
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Yade's government career began in 2007 under Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner. She served as Secretary of State for Human Rights until 2009. During this period, she held a high approval rating exceeding 70 percent. In June 2009, she transitioned to the role of Secretary of State for Sports. By December 2010, she was appointed as the Permanent Delegate of France to UNESCO, a position she held until June 2011.
Political Advocacy and Elections
A proponent of affirmative action, Yade expressed support for a referendum on banning the full veil in France to preserve secularism. She later advocated for the universal decriminalization of homosexuality at the United Nations. In 2017, she sought the French presidency but failed to secure the necessary signatures to participate. She has also served as a member of the regional council of Île-de-France.
Professional Evolution
After departing the Union for a Popular Movement in 2012, Yade joined the Radical Party. She has engaged with think tanks, serving as President of Allons Enfants! and currently works for the Paris-based human resources firm Cursus Management. Since 2021, she has directed the Atlantic Council’s Africa Center.
Fast facts
- Born: 1976, Dakar, Senegal
- Citizenship: France; Senegal
- Education: Sciences Po
- Secretary of State for Human Rights: 2007-2009
- Secretary of State for Sports: 2009-2010
- Permanent Delegate of France to UNESCO: 2010-2011
- Atlantic Council Africa Center Director: 2021-present
Questions readers ask
What political parties has Rama Yade been affiliated with?
She has been affiliated with the Union for a Popular Movement (UMP), the Radical Party, and the New Centre.
Did Rama Yade succeed in her 2017 presidential bid?
No, she was unable to obtain the required number of signatures to qualify as a candidate.
Achievements
- member of the regional council of Île-de-France
- Permanent Delegates of France to UNESCO (2010–2011)
- secretary of state (2007–2010)
- Educated at Sciences Po
