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Forum for Foreign Relations
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  • About us
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  • In the Media
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About the Forum for Foreign Relations

The Forum for Foreign Relations: A Think Tank for Action and Engagement


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.


A Call to Action: Defending the Arab World’s Future


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:


  • Expose and counter Iranian aggression in the region.
  • Dismantle the Muslim Brotherhood’s influence in Arab and Western societies.
  • Support Arab states in their efforts to resist extremism and foreign interference.
  • Strengthen UK-Gulf cooperation to foster economic security and regional stability.


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.

Freedom, Foresight, Fortitude, Resilience

Our Vision

Our Vision

Our Vision

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

Our Vision

Our Vision

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

Our Vision

Our Impact

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.

Our Special Advisers

David Abrahams

David Abrahams

David Abrahams

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

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.

Ghassan Ibrahim

David Abrahams

David Abrahams

Ghassan Ibrahim is a British-Syrian journalist and media personality, regularly appearing on major international and Arabic television channels. Internationally recognised and highly accomplished media leader with over two decades of experience in strategic editorial leadership, business journalism, and deep expertise in global economics 

Ghassan Ibrahim is a British-Syrian journalist and media personality, regularly appearing on major international and Arabic television channels. Internationally recognised and highly accomplished media leader with over two decades of experience in strategic editorial leadership, business journalism, and deep expertise in global economics and geopolitical dynamics, particularly within the MENA region. 

Leading the Discussion

Catherine Perez Shakdam - Executive Director

Catherine Perez Shakdam - Executive Director

Catherine Perez Shakdam - Executive Director

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Aurele Tobelem - Director of Research

Catherine Perez Shakdam - Executive Director

Catherine Perez Shakdam - Executive Director

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Itai Reuveni - Associate Fellow

Catherine Perez Shakdam - Executive Director

Itai Reuveni - Associate Fellow

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Rasha AlAhdab - Associate Fellow

Elaaheh Jamali - Associate Fellow

Itai Reuveni - Associate Fellow

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Elaaheh Jamali - Associate Fellow

Elaaheh Jamali - Associate Fellow

Elaaheh Jamali - Associate Fellow

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Potkin Azarmehr - Senior Fellow

Elaaheh Jamali - Associate Fellow

Elaaheh Jamali - Associate Fellow

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Our Trustees

David Maddox

Maj Gen (Rtd) John Holmes DSO OBE MC

Maj Gen (Rtd) John Holmes DSO OBE MC

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Maj Gen (Rtd) John Holmes DSO OBE MC

Maj Gen (Rtd) John Holmes DSO OBE MC

Maj Gen (Rtd) John Holmes DSO OBE MC

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Rear Admiral (Ret.) Dr. Eyal Pinko

Maj Gen (Rtd) John Holmes DSO OBE MC

Rear Admiral (Ret.) Dr. Eyal Pinko

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Darren Fields

Maj Gen (Rtd) John Holmes DSO OBE MC

Rear Admiral (Ret.) Dr. Eyal Pinko

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Our Advisory Council

Mark Voyger

Laurence Julius

Carlos Abadi

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Carlos Abadi

Laurence Julius

Carlos Abadi

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David Satter

Laurence Julius

Laurence Julius

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Laurence Julius

Laurence Julius

Laurence Julius

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