In a world saturated with intellectual debate, a critical gap remains—the failure to translate analysis into action and to engage the broader public and political leadership in meaningful ways. The Forum for Foreign Relations (FFR) was established to bridge this divide, ensuring that policy discussions and research findings do not remain in the academic sphere but shape public discourse, influence decision-making, and drive strategic outcomes.
At the heart of our work lies an unwavering commitment to democracy, the rule of law, security, and the sovereignty of states. These principles are not mere ideals—they are the bedrock of stability and progress. We challenge those who undermine these values, particularly radical actors and authoritarian regimes in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) that exploit instability to further their agendas of oppression, sectarianism, and destruction.
The Forum for Foreign Relations exists to challenge different threats, uphold democratic values, and ensure that the MENA region does not fall prey to foreign manipulation or extremist ideologies. Our mission is clear:
The battle for the future of the Middle East will not be won on the battlefield alone—it requires a comprehensive strategy that addresses political, economic, and ideological threats. The Arab world must reclaim its sovereignty, protect its institutions, and reject the forces that seek to divide and destabilise it.
The time for action is now. The future of the region depends on those who have the courage to defend it.
The Forum for Foreign Relations is at the forefront of fostering global understanding and shaping foreign policy through rigorous research and vibrant public discourse. We believe in a world where democracy, rule of law, and sovereignty are upheld, and our efforts are dedicated to challenging threats to these values. We inform and empower the public, ensuring that our work not only advances scholarly discussions but also resonates with broader society.
Our values manifest through targeted programmes aimed at creating a safer, more inclusive world. We combat hate, from gender-based violence to religious discrimination, and delve into global political dynamics to foster informed policies. Our commitment extends to environmental stewardship and the ethical integration of emerging technologies. Each programme underlines our dedication to rigorous research, stakeholder engagement, and promoting policies for a sustainable future, guided by principles of democracy and human rights.
Our impact extends beyond research; it's in our strategic outreach efforts that engage policymakers, industry leaders, and the global community. Through targeted distribution, accessible language, multimedia presentations, and dynamic engagement, we ensure our findings catalyse change. Offering free research access and data, hosting influential events, and leveraging digital platforms, we amplify voices and ideas to shape policies and foster a well-informed society. Our commitment to knowledge-sharing and dialogue drives actionable insights and societal advancement.
The Forum for Foreign Relations is pleased to welcome David Abrahams as a Special Advisor. A former Vice President of the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), David brings decades of experience in political strategy, international diplomacy, and interfaith engagement. His expertise in UK national security, Middle East policy, and civic resilience will be a valuable asset as FFR continues to advance informed, principled solutions to global challenges.







