Our roots are in history

Like the UN and the future European Union, which rose from the ashes of World War II, ILERI was founded in 1948. Established on the initiative of René Cassin, co-author of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the school aimed to train diplomats and international civil servants responsible for preventing conflicts. Today, we continue to train free, open-minded individuals who are committed to balance and peace.
Like the UN and the future European Union, which rose from the ashes of World War II, ILERI was founded in 1948. Established on the initiative of René Cassin, co-author of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the school aimed to train diplomats and international civil servants responsible for preventing conflicts. Today, we continue to train free, open-minded individuals who are committed to balance and peace.

The Story of a European Institution Rooted in Multilateralism

Originally established as the International Institute for Diplomatic Studies and Research, ILERI has remained steadfast in its founding objective: ensuring that Europe never again experiences division. Through history and our own evolution, we have continuously adapted to contemporary global challenges, embracing an even greater ambition—the commitment to shaping a better future, both within Europe and beyond.
In 1948, with no financial resources or material support, the Institute's team began teaching in a classroom generously provided by the Catholic Institute. The first courses were led by a dedicated volunteer teaching staff, united by the French humanist spirit of the time.
Since then, we have maintained the same energy and dedication—continuously educating and shaping an elite community of thinkers: free, engaged minds destined to leave a lasting, positive imprint on the world.

Key Milestones and Esteemed Presidents

1948
1954
1968
1976
1988
2000
2014
2019
2021