Miriam Clegg: The Influential Lawyer and Advocate Shaping Global Change
Miriam Clegg, born Miriam González Durántez, stands out as a remarkable figure in international law, philanthropy, and advocacy. As a seasoned international and EU trade lawyer, founder of various influential organizations, and a member of prestigious councils, her multifaceted career demonstrates a profound commitment to legal excellence and social impact. This article delves into the life, career, and influence of Miriam Clegg, highlighting her education, professional journey, and her contributions to global initiatives such as España Mejor and Inspiring Girls International.
Early Life and Education
Miriam González Durántez, commonly known as Miriam Clegg, was born in 1968 in Olmedo, Valladolid, Spain. From an early age, she exhibited a strong dedication to academic excellence and international affairs. Miriam pursued law at the Universidad de Valladolid, where she completed her law degree. This foundational legal education set the stage for her future career in international trade law.
Seeking to deepen her expertise in European affairs, she attended the College of Europe in Bruges, where she earned a master’s degree in European Policy. The College of Europe is renowned for nurturing leaders and experts in European integration, diplomacy, and policy-making — a background that perfectly complemented Miriam’s career ambitions.
Further advancing her academic credentials, Miriam was a Senior Associate Member at the University of Oxford’s Middle East Centre, specifically at St Antony’s College, focusing on Middle Eastern affairs, which added a valuable dimension to her understanding of international relations and trade.
Professional Journey: Law, Advisory, and Leadership
Miriam Clegg’s professional career is a testament to her expertise and leadership in international and EU trade law. Her vast experience spans legal practice, advisory roles, and board memberships that showcase her influence in both the public and private sectors.
España Mejor: Advocating for Political Reform
One of Miriam’s most prominent initiatives is the founding of España Mejor, a non-partisan organization dedicated to promoting liberal reforms and better governance in Spain. Through this platform, she advocates for political modernization, transparency, and citizen engagement. España Mejor reflects Miriam’s deep commitment to fostering positive change in Spanish society and politics, encouraging more open, inclusive, and effective policymaking.
Altius Advisory: A Strategic Legal Partnership
In addition to her advocacy work, Miriam is a founding partner of Altius Advisory, based in Palo Alto, California. This firm specializes in providing strategic legal counsel on international trade and regulatory matters, especially pertaining to EU and US markets. Her role here reinforces her stature as a trusted legal expert bridging European and American commercial interests.
Inspiring Girls International: Empowering the Next Generation
Miriam Clegg is the founder and chair of Inspiring Girls International, a global organization operating across 39 countries. This initiative aims to inspire and empower young girls by connecting them with female role models from various professions and backgrounds. The organization combats gender stereotypes and promotes equality by raising aspirations and providing mentorship opportunities. Miriam’s leadership in this cause reflects her passion for social justice and gender equality on a global scale.
Board Memberships and Advisory Roles
Beyond her core organizations, Miriam has contributed her expertise as a non-executive board member at Atrys, a healthcare and technology company, and as a member of the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) since 2017. The ECFR is a leading think tank that shapes foreign policy debates in Europe, and Miriam’s participation here underscores her influence in international affairs.
Her role on the Diversity Board at Toyota Motor Europe and her advisory membership at the Universidad Pontificia Comillas ICAI-ICADE further exemplify her commitment to diversity, education, and innovation.
Legal Expertise and Career Highlights
Miriam’s legal career is marked by senior roles in prominent international law firms. Notably, she was a partner and head of the trade and European regulation practice at Cohen & Gresser LLP, operating between Washington and London. Before that, she spent seven years as a partner at Dechert LLP, co-chairing their International and EU Trade practice and participating in London’s management committee.
Earlier in her career, Miriam worked at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK, advising on EU-Mediterranean relations and trade during the UK Presidency of the EU Council. She also held advisory positions in the European Commission, supporting External Relations Commissioners on trade and international relations with key regions such as the Middle East, Mediterranean, and Latin America.
Miriam’s involvement as a lead EU negotiator in World Trade Organization (WTO) agreements, including telecommunications and e-commerce, underscores her expert grasp of global trade negotiations and regulatory frameworks.
Publications and Academic Contributions
Beyond the courtroom and boardroom, Miriam Clegg is a published author and educator. She authored the book Devuélveme el Poder (Return My Power), advocating for urgent liberal reforms in Spain’s political landscape.
She is also an adjunct lecturer at Stanford University in California, where she shares her vast experience with the next generation of global leaders. Her educational roles emphasize her commitment to knowledge dissemination and mentorship.
Personal Life: Partnership with Nick Clegg
Miriam is married to Nick Clegg, the former Deputy Prime Minister of the United Kingdom (2010–2015) and current Vice President for Global Affairs at Meta Platforms. Married since 2000, the couple has three sons and balances their lives between the United States, the UK, and Spain.
Together, they form a powerful partnership blending politics, law, and advocacy. Despite their high-profile careers, both maintain a relatively private family life while supporting causes close to their hearts.
Legacy and Ongoing Influence
Miriam Clegg continues to be a driving force in international law, political reform, and women’s empowerment. Her leadership across organizations like España Mejor and Inspiring Girls International has influenced thousands, fostering dialogue and action in areas ranging from gender equality to global trade policy.
Her multifaceted career — blending legal practice, policy advisory, board governance, education, and authorship — showcases a rare blend of intellect, passion, and pragmatism. Miriam remains a role model for aspiring lawyers, advocates, and leaders around the world.
Conclusion
Miriam Clegg’s journey from a law student in Spain to an international trade lawyer and influential advocate illustrates the power of dedication and vision. Her contributions span continents and sectors, making her a prominent figure in today’s global landscape.
Through her legal expertise, commitment to reform, and advocacy for girls’ empowerment, Miriam Clegg exemplifies leadership that transcends borders and inspires future generations.
