Friends of Europe is an independent think tank with a difference. With 20 years’ experience, we have a unique toolbox at our disposal to connect stakeholders, foster debates and trigger the change needed to create a more inclusive, sustainable and forward-looking world. We aim to be a catalyst for change and believe that real solutions come from transforming mindsets through the confrontation of ideas and the breaking down of silos between policymakers, business leaders, and civil society representatives.

The focus of our peace, security and defence programme is the resilience of our institutions, societies, and democracy.  By building on our previous recommendations and proposed solutions to global security challenges, we seek to formulate and identify innovative means of reducing both internal and global tensions and countering the shift away from democracy and stability in an era of systemic shocks. This includes unique public-private tabletop exercises, whole-of-society dialogue to counter disinformation narratives, and providing EU leaders with innovative solutions to counter hybrid threats, promote democracy, and achieve a sustainable future for Europe.