About the Forum for Foreign Relations

In an era where intellectual discourse is abundant, there exists a notable gap - a scarcity of meaningful engagement with the broader public and political classes on the outcomes and implications of these debates and discussions. The Forum for Foreign Relations emerges as a pioneering think tank, distinctively positioned within this market. Our vision transcends the traditional perimeters of debate and analysis, advocating for a nuanced approach that integrates comprehensive research with public engagement.

At the core of The Forum for Foreign Relations's work are simple but unshakeable principles: democracy, the rule of law, security, and the indisputable sovereignty of states. These tenets form the bedrock of our research and advocacy efforts. We stand to challenge those who defy these principles, going against the core values of the democratic world and the UK, and those who threaten to undermine these values through instilling fear, destruction, and oppression. Our commitment to upholding these principles is unwavering, as we strive to contribute to a world where the sanctity of democracy and the rule of law are preserved, and where every state's sovereignty is respected.

We at The Forum for Foreign Relations believe that the efficacy of a think tank should not be solely gauged by the profundity of its research or the vigour of its discussions, but also by its success in bridging the chasm between intricate analysis and widespread public discourse. Our mission is to ensure that our work not only contributes to scholarly discussions but also resonates with a broader audience, thereby fostering a well-informed society.

To achieve this, we employ a multifaceted strategy for disseminating our findings. By directly reaching out to stakeholders, including policymakers and political figures, we ensure that our analyses are not just heard but are instrumental in shaping informed decisions. This includes harnessing the power of social media platforms to deliver bite-sized, accessible content, creating engaging podcasts to reach our audience during their everyday routines, and organising traditional events alongside printed publications to captivate and educate diverse demographics. Our endeavour to communicate research findings extends beyond the completion of a report; it is rejuvenated with every effort to relay our insights to those who can leverage them to foster change and innovation.

The Forum for Foreign Relations takes pride in its non-partisan stance, actively engaging with perspectives from both the left and the right of the political spectrum. We believe that adhering to a single ideological track not only limits the grasp of a narrative but also risks it spiralling out of control. In fostering a platform that welcomes diverse viewpoints, we enrich our analyses and ensure that our contributions to public discourse are balanced, insightful, and inclusive.

In the contemporary geopolitical landscape, the democratic world stands at a crossroads, facing three formidable challenges that threaten the very fabric of our societies: Russia, China, and Iran. These nations, defying logic and converging in ideology, have shown a disturbing disregard for human life and are actively engaged in undermining Western values. Through the war in Ukraine and proxy wars across the Middle East and Africa, Russia and the Islamic Republic of Iran's destructive agendas are unmistakably clear, posing a direct challenge to the principles of freedom and democracy that we hold dear.

The malign influence of Russia and the Islamic Republic of Iran extends far beyond these conflict zones, becoming a catalyst for the politics of hate that is increasingly evident within our societies. Antisemitism and religious hate, often used as tools to sow division, stand at the forefront of their tactics. These nations employ traditional National Socialist tactics and political narratives that serve to divide nations, exploiting times of financial instability - instability that their actions have significantly contributed to. The wars and conflicts initiated by Russia and Iran not only wreak havoc on the ground but also destabilise economies and societies far from the battlefield.

The reach of Russian and Iranian influence in Western politics has been well-documented, revealing a worrying trend of how susceptible our democracies are to external tampering. Reports and investigations have shed light on their concerted efforts to infiltrate and manipulate political processes, highlighting an urgent need to bolster our democratic institutions against such interference.

Simultaneously, the challenge posed by China cannot be overlooked. As it stands to benefit from the turmoil in Europe and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, China's strategy of resource acquisition and increasing its influence over belligerent states becomes evident. As the international community grapples with the repercussions of Russian and Iranian aggression, China seizes the opportunity to expand its geopolitical footprint, exploiting the shifting dynamics to its advantage.

These challenges underscore the necessity for the democratic world to stand united and resolute. Strengthening our democracies requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both the internal vulnerabilities exploited by external actors and the broader strategic threats posed by these adversarial states. As we navigate these tumultuous times, it is imperative that we remain vigilant, reinforcing the values of democracy, the rule of law, and the sanctity of human life against those who seek to undermine them.