The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) is delighted to announce the appointment of Maria Antonieta Alcalde Castro as its next Director General, effective March 2026. This follows an extensive global search by the Board of Trustees in anticipation of the conclusion of Alvaro Bermejo’s second and final term.
Since 2018, Alvaro has provided courageous and steady leadership through a period of radical transformation at IPPF. Under his guidance, the Federation has become more resilient, more connected and far bolder in advancing sexual and reproductive health, rights and justice worldwide.
The Board undertook a robust, inclusive and independent recruitment process. With support from the international search firm Perrett Laver, exceptional leaders from across the SRHR movement applied, demonstrating the depth of global talent and commitment to our cause.
From this highly competitive pool, the Board unanimously selected Maria Antonieta. Widely respected across the sector, she is a visionary feminist leader who began her career as a youth activist and has spent more than 30 years advancing SRHR at every level. She brings deep roots in Latin America and the Caribbean, extensive experience in intergovernmental processes and UN negotiations, and a proven track record of movement-building, policy influence and partnership-building.
Maria Antonieta will take-up her position from 1 March 2026, for an initial four-year term.
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