Michel Camdessus (born 1 May 1933) is a French economist who served as the seventh managing director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) from 1987 to 2000, making him the longest-serving in that position.
One notable events during his tenure at the IMF was the 1997 East Asian financial crisis.
His role during the crisis has drawn criticism, for not paying attention to the unique circumstances of the East Asian countries and blindly imposing the measures that were followed in Mexico, leading to considerable turmoil and rioting in countries such as Indonesia.
As part of this Panel, he contributes to coalition-building, leverage and broker knowledge sharing, and influencing policies for lasting change in Africa.
Camdessus participates in the jury for the Conflict Prevention Prize[3] awarded every year by this foundation, and in the scientific committee of its Water and Sanitation program.