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Day: 11 November 2025

AMPN marks 50 years of marine conservation with retrospective exhibition

by: Cassandra Tanti
11/11/2025

To mark its 50th anniversary, the Association Monégasque pour la Protection de la Nature (AMPN) has launched a photographic exhibition at the Galerie des Pêcheurs, offering a thoughtful look at five decades of marine preservation work in the Principality.

Opened on 7th November, the AMPN’s anniversary exhibition draws together archival and contemporary photographs that chart the association’s evolution since its founding in 1975. The location — the Galerie des Pêcheurs, set just beneath the Oceanographic Museum — offers a fitting backdrop for a retrospective that reflects Monaco’s long-standing connection to the sea.

The exhibition is structured around six key themes: protecting, developing, restoring, studying, innovating and raising awareness. These categories frame the AMPN’s main areas of focus, from the creation of Marine Protected Areas like the Larvotto and Spélugues reserves, to ongoing scientific research and outreach programmes aimed at the younger generation.

Recognising Monaco’s early leadership

The AMPN was created at the request of Prince Rainier III, who sought to position Monaco as a responsible actor in safeguarding the Mediterranean. The organisation has since led a number of pioneering initiatives, including the development of 3D-printed artificial reefs — a global first when installed in 2017 — and long-term studies into local marine biodiversity, particularly fish populations and seagrass habitats.

Through detailed visuals and clearly curated narratives, the exhibition offers visitors a chance to see how conservation efforts that began decades ago are continuing to shape the local marine environment today.

A moment of recognition for a longstanding commitment

The exhibition’s opening was attended by several high-profile figures, including Minister of State Christophe Mirmand, Prince Albert II’s special environmental adviser Bernard Fautrier, and Environment Minister Céline Caron-Dagioni. Their presence underscored the central role the AMPN plays in Monaco’s broader environmental agenda — one that increasingly involves collaboration between government, science, and civic society.

Alongside its fieldwork, the AMPN has also made education a key pillar of its mission. Initiatives such as the ‘Aire Marine Éducative’ give schoolchildren in Monaco the opportunity to participate directly in conservation efforts, a theme that is also visible throughout the exhibition.

Looking ahead with clarity and purpose

As the exhibition shows, the AMPN’s work is not only about protecting what exists but preparing for what’s next. With support from the Prince Albert II Foundation and the Princely Government, the organisation continues to publish its research in scientific journals and to advocate for policies that strengthen marine protections in the Mediterranean and beyond.

The exhibition runs until 4th January 2026 and is open to the public.

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Photo credit: Manuel Vitali, Government Communications Department

ISM earns global recognition for technology innovation

by: Cassandra Tanti
11/11/2025

The International School of Monaco (ISM) has been shortlisted for a major international education accolade, placing it among the world’s most forward-thinking schools when it comes to integrating technology into teaching and learning.

The nomination comes from the Tes Awards for International Schools 2025, which received nearly 600 entries from around the globe. Now in its second year, the Tes Awards — organised by the team behind the UK’s renowned ‘Oscars of education’ — celebrate excellence in schools teaching British or international curricula.

ISM’s place on the shortlist for Best Use of Technology reflects what judges describe as “inspiring” efforts by educators and institutions to innovate in the classroom and beyond. The school is one of only eight in the world recognised in this category, alongside high-profile institutions from India, Qatar and the UAE.

Dan Worth, International Editor of Tes Magazine and chair of the judging panel, noted that the shortlist reflects the exceptional quality of submissions this year. “The depth of innovation made this a highly competitive selection process,” he said. “We look forward to celebrating the winners next month and acknowledging the outstanding work of educators worldwide.”

Prince Albert II in the state-of-the-art tech room at ISM during the school’s inauguration. Photo credit: Ed Wright Images

Founded in 1994 with just 34 students, the International School of Monaco has grown into one of the Principality’s most respected educational institutions. Today, ISM educates more than 850 students representing 63 nationalities. It is also one of Monaco’s most globally recognised schools, having recently been named in both the Spear’s Top 100 Schools Indexand the Carfax Education Schools Index of the world’s top private schools.

Though specific details of ISM’s technology strategy have not yet been disclosed, the nomination suggests a comprehensive and impactful use of digital tools to support teaching and student engagement — a factor of increasing importance for globally mobile families and tech-conscious investors in education.

Among the stand-outs on offer at the school is seven floor-to-ceiling android touch screens and accompanying virtual reality headsets, which provide students with 360° virtual reality capability. 

The awards are supported by several prominent international educational bodies, including the Council of British International Schools (COBIS), British Schools in the Middle East (BSME), and the International Baccalaureate (IB).

See also: 

Inside the new state-of-the-art International School of Monaco campus

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Main photo credit: Cassandra Tanti

Monaco United mark first home win after a hard-fought match

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
11/11/2025

Monaco United Women made history on Sunday with their first-ever home match and their first-ever home victory, even though the win did not come easy. 

Despite what the 5-2 scoreline might suggest, Monaco United had to work considerably hard against a stubborn Mougins side at the Didier Deschamps Stadium.

Playing in front of their own supporters for the first time, Marco Simone’s team dominated possession from the outset and launched attack after attack. But Mougins had clearly come with a plan, sitting deep and defending in numbers, forcing the hosts to get creative in their search for a breakthrough.

Marina Makanza during the game, photo credit: Liam Fabre

For the longest part of the match, it was one-way traffic. Monaco United’s goalkeeper found herself with precious little to do, watching from a distance as her teammates camped in the opposition half. At the other end, the Mougins keeper was much busier, dealing with wave after wave of pressure.

Then came the twist. Against the run of play, Mougins caught Monaco United on the break and took the lead, momentarily silencing the home crowd.

The response came just before half-time when captain Rachel Robert struck a superb volley to level things at 1-1, finally rewarding Monaco United’s dominance with a goal.

The two teams battling during the match, photo credit: Liam Fabre

“To be honest, it was a tough game,” Sara Lakhssassi told Monaco Life after the match.

The second half though brought a different story. Monaco United pushed ahead early on, but when Mougins balanced the scale at 2-2, the match hung in the balance. Robert stepped up again, firing home her second to restore the lead, and this time there was no coming back for the visitors. Two more goals sealed to a convincing win and sent the home fans away delighted

“We kept focus, we were all together,” Lakhssassi added. “But we won, in the end we won, so that’s the big news and we are happy for that.”

Monaco United celebrating after scoring a goal, photo credit: Liam Fabre

It wasn’t the easy performance Monaco United might have hoped for in their historic first home match, but grinding out results when the opposition makes life difficult is a valuable skill. The victory extends their perfect start to four wins from four matches.

The team will now travel to Cagnes-sur-Mer next Sunday looking to maintain their winning run.

See also: 

Monaco United Women cruise to six goal victory ahead of historic home debut

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Main photo credit: Liam Fabre

Prince Albert II meets young climate innovators in Brazil

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
11/11/2025

Following the inauguration of his Foundation’s Latin American branch in São Paulo, Prince Albert II took part that same evening in a separate event dedicated to youth entrepreneurship and climate innovation.

The Prince visited the Armando Alvarez Penteado Foundation (FAAP) on November 7th for a gathering that brought together students and founders presenting their environmental ventures.

The entrepreneurs showcased diverse approaches to sustainability challenges. One founder has developed drone technology combined with AI to replant degraded forest areas at scale. Another created a solar-powered device that disinfects water, now providing clean drinking water to tens of thousands of people across three countries.

Prince Albert II meeting the young entrepreneurs, photo credit: Michael Alesi / Palais Princier

Other innovations included using seaweed as a raw material for clothing fibres, applying biotechnology to cut food waste during refrigeration, and designing systems that reduce household water consumption.

Several of the founders have received international recognition, with some names to Forbes’ young entrepreneur list or selected from United Nations environmental awards.

Focus on youth leadership

Speaking at the event, entrepreneur Federico Perez, a member of the foundation’s development committee, highlighted the role of the region and its young leaders. “Latin America will showcase resilience, innovation, and the power of youth leadership. The Amazon itself is a planetary treasure — it is a legacy for all humanity,” he said.

He added that the entrepreneurs “represent a generation that refuses to accept climate inaction, bringing the creativity and determination our time demands”.

Prince Albert II speaking during the event, photo credit: Michael Alesi / Palais Princier

The Prince concluded by addressing the changes facing the world. “Sustainable innovation is no longer a choice. It is a necessity,” he said. “It is the key to building resilient economies, capable of facing crises while respecting the boundaries of our planet. It is also a powerful force for shaping fairer societies, where every voice counts and every community matters. It is the foundation of tomorrow’s prosperity.

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All photos credit: Michael Alesi / Palais Princier 

More photos can be found in the gallery below…

Prince Albert II pays homage to Ayrton Senna during visit to Brazil

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
11/11/2025

Prince Albert II took time during his visit to Brazil to honour one of motorsport’s most iconic figures, meeting with the family of Ayrton Senna at the legend’s institute. 

The visit to São Paulo brought together two worlds closely connected through racing history. The Prince was welcomed by Bianca Senna, who runs Senna Brands, alongside Bruno Senna, Ayrton’s nephew and former F1 driver himself, as well as Paula Lalli Senna and the Institute’s Vice-President, Ewerton Fulini. The meeting took place in the presence of one of Senna’s celebrated McLaren racing cars.

Photo in front of Ayrton Senna’s McLaren, photo credit: Michaël ALESI / Palais princier

The connection between Senna and Monaco runs deep. The Brazilian driver’s mastery of Monaco’s difficult street circuit, a circuit which he had won six times, still remains legendary and his record continues to speak volumes of his talent on the narrow, unforgiving track.

Prince Albert marked the visit by signing a replica of Senna’s 1987 Monaco helmet. He also toured a specially prepared exhibition featuring personal items that told the story of Senna’s relationship with Monaco, where his racing has earned him a permanent place in Monaco’s history.

Prince Albert II touring the exhibition, photo credit: Michaël ALESI / Palais princier

However, the visit was more than motorsport nostalgia. The Instituto Ayrton Senna represents the drivers impact off the track. It represents his commitment to education and social development that has touched countless young Brazilians over three decades.

Chaired by Viviane Senna-Lalli, Ayrton’s sister, the organisation holds official public-interest status and works across Brazil with government agencies, businesses, and community groups. It’s a living legacy that carries on Senna’s humanitarian values.

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Main photo credit: Michaël Alesi / Palais princier

Monaco GDP surpasses €10 billion for first time

by: Cassandra Tanti
11/11/2025

Monaco’s economy grew by 8.8% in real terms in 2024, setting a new GDP record of €10.28 billion, the highest ever recorded in the Principality. The figures, published this month by Monaco’s official statistics body IMSEE, reflect a fourth consecutive year of expansion following the Covid-19 crisis and mark what the institute describes as a “particularly dynamic year” across most sectors of the economy.

Adjusted for inflation, GDP grew at a faster rate in 2024 than in the previous year (+5.4%), and outpaced many European and global benchmarks. Since 2015, Monaco’s GDP has risen by nearly 53% in real terms — almost double the global growth rate (+28%), and significantly above that of the eurozone (+13%) and France (+11%).

Core sectors contribute over half of total GDP

Three sectors accounted for more than half of Monaco’s economic output in 2024: scientific and technical services (including administrative support), financial and insurance activities, and wholesale trade.

  • Scientific and technical services remained the largest contributor to GDP, generating more than €3 billion in output and growing by 10.2% year-on-year.

  • Financial and insurance activities increased by 11.9%, contributing an additional €197 million compared to 2023.

  • Wholesale trade grew by 9.4%, adding €183 million in value.

Accommodation and food services recorded the fastest growth rate at 22.2%, driven in part by continued recovery in the hospitality and events sectors. However, IMSEE notes that this sector represents just 2.8% of overall GDP.

Employment and productivity reach new highs

Job creation continued to rise in 2024, with more than 60,700 positions recorded in the private sector — an increase of 3.6% compared to the previous year. This marks an all-time employment high for the Principality.

Productivity indicators also increased. GDP per employee reached €152,277, while GDP per capita surpassed the €100,000 mark, standing at €100,358. IMSEE attributes these gains to growth in high-value service sectors.

Tax receipts and domestic activity strengthen

Monaco’s VAT revenue rose by 12.2% in 2024, exceeding €2.3 billion and reinforcing its position as the main source of state income. The increase is in line with higher consumption and overall business activity, according to the report.

The domestic economy generated the majority of growth, with value added by Monaco-based companies rising by over €760 million. Imports of goods and services grew by 7.7%, while exports increased by 6.9%.

Environmental efficiency improves, but emissions rise

The report notes a reduction in carbon intensity despite an absolute increase in greenhouse gas emissions. Monaco’s CO₂ equivalent emissions totalled 102,000 tonnes in 2024 — an increase of 3.4% — but emissions per €1 million of GDP declined by 5.1%. This continued a longer-term trend of improving environmental efficiency.

IMSEE highlights that 2024 marks the fourth consecutive year in which carbon intensity has decreased, although the Principality’s total emissions remain closely tied to infrastructure projects and activity in construction-related sectors.

Structural observations from IMSEE

While the 2024 figures confirm a strong expansion, IMSEE also flags structural features in the economy worth monitoring. The report points to an increasing concentration of GDP within a limited number of sectors and a continued reliance on VAT as the principal fiscal lever.

Additionally, the statistical body notes that only six of Monaco’s 12 major sectors recorded growth across GDP, employment and hours worked — a sign that, while overall performance remains strong, not all parts of the economy are expanding at the same pace.

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Photo credit: Cassandra Tanti