It is with great regret that we announce the loss of Bernard Mis who worked closely with the European Centre for Modern Languages during its formative years from 1994 – 2001.

Based at the French Ministry for Foreign Affairs, he was closely involved in the set-up phase of the ECML which received particularly strong support from France, together with the Netherlands and the host country, Austria.

Bernard continued to play a key role with the Centre during its early years and indeed throughout its development, acting as Board member for France and  Vice Chair to the Governing Board. He was an extremely kind-hearted individual with an immense wealth of constructive advice and a warm sense of humour. He proved to be a great and much valued friend to the ECML. He leaves many fond memories with those who worked with him.

In addition to his work with the French cultural service in countries such as Morocco, Spain, and Mexico, he served as Secretary General and Vice President of the Mission laïque française (French lay/secular mission), a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the French language and culture through the creation and management of schools abroad.

He passed away on Christmas eve aged 89. Our sincere condolences go out to all his family and friends.

(photo credit :  Mission laïque française – Réseau mlfmonde)