Wilfried Martens
Wilfried Martens was born on 19 April 1936 and died on 9 October 2013.
He led nine governments from 1979 to 1992.
During this period, he completed the first two phases of the reform of the State.
Political party: CVP
Studies
Law, Notarial studies and Thomistic Philosophy
Career
Started as an advisor to several ministers' offices
1967-1971
President of CVP-Jongeren (CVP Youth organisation)
1972-1979
President of the CVP
He took a leading role in the negotiations between the regions and communities of Belgium.
1974-1991
Member of Parliament for the district of Gand-Eeklo
1976
Co-founder of the European People's Party
1979-1992
Prime Minister of nine successive governments
From 1982 onwards, priority was given to a robust policy for driving Belgium's social, economic and financial recovery.
Many crises hampered the Government's work: the iron and steel industry, nuclear missiles, the Fourons issues and abortion.
1990
President of the European People's Party (EPP)
1992
Minister of State
1993-1996
President of the Christian Democrats to the European Union
1998
Charles V Award for his contribution to the construction of the European Union