Forum for Foreign Relations in Action

David Abrahams is a British entrepreneur, political strategist, and philanthropist with a distinguished track record in national policy, international diplomacy, and interfaith engagement. He served as Vice President of the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), the world’s oldest defence and security think tank, where he became the first Jewish figure to hold that post in the institute’s 180-year history.

During his tenure at RUSI, Abrahams focused on the intersection of defence policy and diplomacy, particularly in relation to the Middle East. He played a quiet yet influential role in Track II diplomacy, facilitating high-level dialogue between Arab states and Israel. His work contributed to international discussions around regional peace frameworks and the establishment of a Palestinian state.

David Abrahams has also held several leadership roles within UK political advocacy. A longstanding supporter of the Labour Party, he served as Vice-Chair of the Jewish Labour Movement and Acting Director of Labour Friends of Israel. His political engagement has always been grounded in a commitment to pluralism, national security, and democratic values.

His philanthropic contributions include the establishment of a university chair in the International Politics of the Middle East at the University of Warwick, alongside longstanding support for charities such as NEPACS (North East Prisons After Care Society), the North East Alzheimer’s Society, and various interfaith initiatives. As Director of Parliamentary Affairs at the Council for Christians and Jews, and a collaborator with the Three Faiths Forum, he has worked extensively to strengthen social cohesion through dialogue and education.

He is a Freeman of the City of London, a member of the Reform Club in Pall Mall, and continues to advise governments and institutions on counter-extremism, civic engagement, and regional diplomacy.