November 9, 2025

International Churchill Society Chapter Launches in France

The International Churchill Society is proud to celebrate the official launch of its French Chapter, marked by an exceptional inaugural ceremony at the Institut de France on Wednesday, October 15, 2025. The gathering took place in the Grande salle des séances under the aegis of the Académie des sciences morales et politiques, the Académie française, and the Académie des Beaux-Arts. The occasion drew an enthusiastic audience and highlighted the depth of Churchillian interest in a country Sir Winston visited more than any other. The International Churchill Society was honored to be represented by Board President Randolph Churchill and Board Member Lee Pollock.

The French Chapter is led by its President, Jean-Noël Tronc, whose vision and energy have brought this endeavor to life. The Chapter’s Scientific Council is chaired by the historian François Kersaudy and includes a diverse group of scholars and civic leaders united by the conviction that Churchill’s values of liberty, truth, and parliamentary democracy remain vital guides for our time. The ICS applauds Jean-Noël for his outstanding leadership in establishing the Chapter with such distinction.

The ceremony opened with remarks from Xavier Darcos, Chancellor of the Institut de France, and featured contributions from distinguished voices including Lord Mance, a corresponding member of the Académie des sciences morales et politiques; Sir Michael Edwards of the Académie française; Hervé Gaymard, Academician and President of the Institut Charles de Gaulle; and Bernard Stirn, Permanent Secretary of the Académie des sciences morales et politiques. Representing the International Churchill Society, Randolph Churchill saluted the Chapter’s founding team and reflected on the enduring bonds between Britain and France. Jean-Noël Tronc and François Kersaudy outlined the Chapter’s mission to cultivate serious study, open debate, and public engagement inspired by Churchill’s example.

A memorable highlight was the unveiling by La Poste of a new commemorative postage stamp bearing Churchill’s likeness, conceived in collaboration with the French Chapter. In a first for France, the stamp includes an innovative feature created by the French company Ask Mona: a QR code that enables the public to pose questions to an AI about Churchill’s life and legacy. The stamp is scheduled for national distribution across 12,000 post offices beginning Monday, October 20, 2025, offering a wide audience an accessible doorway into Churchillian history.

Looking ahead, the French Chapter will convene seminars and publications exploring Churchill’s literary achievements and contemporary geopolitical relevance. You can visit the French Chapter website here.