Our Policy Focus Areas
Expert Analysis. Live Events. Global Impact.
The Atlantic Council of the United Kingdom provides expert insights into the UK’s role in global security and defence. Our focus includes:
- Strengthening NATO’s strategic role in international security by providing analysis on its evolving defence strategy and ensuring alignment with UK national security objectives.
This includes evaluating NATO’s response capabilities, the role of member states in collective defence, and the evolving threats posed by state and non-state actors.
- Addressing emerging security threats, including cyber warfare, terrorism, hybrid threats, and disinformation campaigns, to develop resilience strategies. Our research examines how digital and asymmetric threats impact national security and the global order, and how the UK can build resilient defence mechanisms.
- Analysing UK defence policy in the context of shifting global security dynamics, military readiness, and geopolitical challenges. We provide insight into military modernisation efforts, the UK’s nuclear deterrent, and defence spending priorities.
- Advocating for policies that reinforce peace, stability, and resilience, ensuring the UK remains a key player in maintaining international security partnerships. We work closely with policymakers to craft actionable recommendations that enhance defence cooperation and deterrence strategies.
Our work is dedicated to promoting democratic values, human rights, and the rule of law. We engage in:
- Advocacy for free and fair elections, media freedom, and the protection of civil liberties across the UK and internationally. This involves monitoring electoral processes, analysing media regulations, and supporting press freedom initiatives.
- Research and policy recommendations to strengthen legal frameworks that safeguard human rights in response to authoritarian threats. We explore best practices in human rights protections and strategies for countering state repression.
- Facilitating dialogue on democratic governance and international law, ensuring accountability and transparency in government actions. We organise forums that bring together policymakers, legal experts, and civil society to discuss pressing governance issues.
- Strengthening institutions that protect fundamental freedoms, supporting international efforts to counter repression and human rights violations. We assess the effectiveness of global institutions in promoting human rights and advocate for stronger international enforcement mechanisms.
We foster strategic collaboration between the United Kingdom, NATO allies, and international partners to:
- Strengthen multilateral relationships through diplomatic engagement, defence cooperation, and economic partnerships. We examine bilateral and multilateral agreements that reinforce transatlantic unity.
- Promote diplomatic solutions to global conflicts, working closely with governments, think tanks, and international bodies. Our research focuses on conflict resolution strategies and diplomatic negotiation frameworks.
- Support UK foreign policy initiatives in maintaining stability, countering external threats, and fostering economic growth. We provide insights on diplomatic efforts to manage crises and strengthen global alliances.
- Enhance joint efforts in military, economic, and technological collaborations, ensuring effective responses to shared security challenges. We explore joint military exercises, intelligence-sharing agreements, and cooperative technological advancements.
As global political landscapes shift, we provide analysis and strategic guidance on:
- The UK’s position in global governance, including its role in the United Nations, G7, G20, and other international institutions. We analyse the UK's diplomatic engagements and policy leadership in global affairs.
- Emerging geopolitical trends, evaluating their impact on the UK's national security and foreign relations. This includes assessments of power shifts, regional conflicts, and international trade disputes.
- The evolution of global alliances and trade relationships, assessing their economic and security implications. We explore how political shifts impact economic partnerships and security arrangements.
- Diplomatic strategies for conflict resolution and crisis management, offering policy insights into international peacebuilding efforts. Our focus is on diplomatic de-escalation tactics and peacekeeping operations.
A stable and secure economy is essential to national and global prosperity. Our research includes:
- The impact of global trade policies on the UK and its allies, analysing trends in free trade agreements, tariffs, and economic diplomacy. We assess trade risks and opportunities in light of changing geopolitical conditions.
- Economic resilience strategies to mitigate risks from external disruptions, including financial crises, sanctions, and supply chain vulnerabilities. We study financial stability measures and crisis management strategies.
- The role of international trade agreements in fostering growth, competitiveness, and market access for UK businesses. We evaluate trade negotiations and their potential economic impact.
- Policy recommendations for sustainable economic growth and security, ensuring financial stability and investor confidence. We explore fiscal policies that promote long-term economic resilience.
We analyse the intersection of technology, cybersecurity, and global security, including:
- The role of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies in defence, evaluating their implications for national security. We assess risks related to AI-driven warfare and cyber threats.
- Strategies to combat cyber threats, including cybercrime, data breaches, and digital espionage. Our research explores best practices in cybersecurity defence and regulatory measures.
- The impact of digital transformation on international relations, assessing both opportunities and risks in an increasingly interconnected world. We investigate how digital diplomacy is reshaping global interactions.
- Policy frameworks to enhance cyber resilience and security, ensuring data protection, digital sovereignty, and technological innovation. We provide recommendations for enhancing cybersecurity capabilities at the national and international levels.
Recognising the critical role of sustainability in security, we focus on:
- The geopolitical impact of energy dependence and transition, analysing the UK’s role in global energy markets. We study supply chain security and renewable energy transitions.
- Strategies for mitigating climate risks to national security, addressing environmental threats such as extreme weather and resource scarcity. Our research includes climate resilience planning and adaptation measures.
- The role of sustainable energy policies in global stability, ensuring secure and diversified energy supplies. We assess the effectiveness of green energy initiatives in reducing geopolitical tensions.
- The intersection of environmental policy and international security frameworks, promoting clean energy initiatives that align with broader geopolitical strategies. We advocate for international cooperation on climate security.
Recognising the critical role of sustainability in security, we focus on:
- The geopolitical impact of energy dependence and transition, analysing the UK’s role in global energy markets. We study supply chain security and renewable energy transitions.
- Strategies for mitigating climate risks to national security, addressing environmental threats such as extreme weather and resource scarcity. Our research includes climate resilience planning and adaptation measures.
- The role of sustainable energy policies in global stability, ensuring secure and diversified energy supplies. We assess the effectiveness of green energy initiatives in reducing geopolitical tensions.
- The intersection of environmental policy and international security frameworks, promoting clean energy initiatives that align with broader geopolitical strategies. We advocate for international cooperation on climate security.
Our commitment to fostering informed discourse includes:
- Public seminars and expert panels featuring top policymakers, security analysts, and academics on pressing global issues. We create platforms for constructive discussions on security and policy.
- Policy briefings for decision-makers, businesses, and institutions, offering expert insights on international security and diplomacy. We provide tailored policy recommendations to stakeholders.
- Educational initiatives aimed at engaging young professionals, fostering the next generation of leaders in global affairs. We develop training programmes and mentorship opportunities.
- Strengthening public understanding of international relations and defence policies, ensuring informed participation in democratic governance. We produce accessible resources to promote public engagement.
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Innovation
Fresh, creative policy solutions.
Integrity
Honest and transparency Research
Excellence
Top-notch authors and speakers.
The Atlantic Council of the United Kingdom is an independent, non-governmental, organisation based in London.
Phone: +44 1439772307
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