Over the years, the Francophonie has experienced significant growth and development. Its institutional framework has expanded to accommodate new members and changing priorities, while maintaining a focus on promoting the French language and culture across the globe.
The first institutions of the Francophonie were the Conference of Ministers of Education (Confémen) and the Conference of Ministers of Youth and Sports (Conféjes), which were established in 1960. These institutions aimed to assist newly independent countries in organizing and improving the education and development of their young people.
In 1961, the Association of French-language Universities (AupelO) was created, followed in 1987 by the University of French Expression Networks (UreQ), which together formed the Aupelf-Uref. In 1997, these institutions were replaced by the University Agency of the Francophonie (AUF). The AUF works to enhance the quality of education, research, and innovation in French-speaking countries, while also promoting cooperation and collaboration between its member institutions.
The Cultural and Technical Cooperation Agency (ACCT) was created in 1970 as a technical agency primarily operating in the fields of culture and education. It was replaced in 1997 by the Intergovernmental Agency of the Francophonie (AIF), which now serves as the main body responsible for implementing the policies and initiatives of the Francophonie. The AIF works to promote peace, democracy, human rights, and development, while also supporting the use and teaching of the French language.
In addition to these institutions, the Francophonie has also established a number of other bodies, including the International Association of Francophone Mayors and the Association of Francophone Parliamentarians. These organizations work to promote cooperation and dialogue among francophone communities across the world.
Through its institutional framework, the Francophonie has become a dynamic and influential network of countries and organizations committed to promoting French language and culture, as well as shared democratic values and social progress. Its continued growth and development will play a crucial role in fostering mutual understanding and cooperation among its members, and in strengthening the cultural diversity of the global community.