01 Jul BFPG’s June 2025 Review
June marked a decisive shift toward defence and strategic positioning, with the UK’s long-awaited Strategic Defence Review taking centre stage. Released amid escalating global tensions, the Review seeks to reassert Britain’s defence credibility, modernise its capabilities, and reinforce its NATO commitments. It comes at a time when the transatlantic alliance is facing renewed uncertainty, with the second Trump presidency looming over US-UK relations. Against this backdrop, BFPG’s activities explored how the UK might navigate this volatile landscape and its new defence and national security strategy, as well as continuing to engage with the pressing issues shaping the UK’s global role, from the future of transatlantic relations to UK soft power. Take a look at what we got up to below.
June Analysis
Rhetorical Distance, Structural Depth: UK–US Ties in the Trump–Starmer Era
BFPG Associate Fellow Michael Martins explores the likely trajectory of UK–US relations under a second Trump administration and a the Labour government in Britain. Despite differences in tone and priorities, the piece argues that institutional and strategic ties will remain deeply embedded. READ HERE
The Strategic Defence Review: 10 Key Takeaways
BFPG Director Evie Aspianall provides concise summary of the UK’s latest Strategic Defence Review, outlining the most significant policy shifts, spending commitments, and strategic priorities shaping Britain’s future defence posture. READ HERE
Effective Parliamentary Scrutiny of Foreign, Defence and Security Policy
Guest contributor Eliot Wilson examines the current mechanisms for parliamentary oversight in the UK and offers recommendations for enhancing democratic accountability in foreign and security policymaking. READ HERE
The UK’s New Defence Posture is Bold – but Washington will want Proof, not Promises
Assessing the UK’s updated defence ambitions, BFPG Associate Fellow Michael Martins argues that while rhetoric signals ambition, US policymakers will expect tangible commitments and sustained follow-through from London. READ HERE
June Events
Science and Soft Power: In Conversation with Julia Gillard
Former Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard joined BFPG, in partnership with the Wellcome Trust, to discuss how scientific collaboration and diplomacy can serve as crucial instruments of soft power in an increasingly competitive international landscape.
Diplomatic Hour: In Conversation with the Representative of the Taipei Representative Office in the UK
BFPG welcomed His Excellency Ambassador Yao, Representative of the Taipei Representative Office in the UK, for a candid conversation exploring Taiwan-UK relations, regional security in the Indo-Pacific, and the challenges of diplomacy without formal recognition.
Why the Western Balkans Still Matter: A Conversation with Dame Karen Pierce
UK Special Envoy to the Western Balkans, Dame Karen Pierce DCMG, joined BFPG to share valuable insights into the enduring geopolitical relevance of the Western Balkans, the region’s Euro-Atlantic aspirations, and the UK’s role in supporting stability and reform, as the UK prepares to host the Berlin Process Summit in Autumn 2025, bringing together leaders from the Western Balkans and wider Europe to strengthen collaboration with the region.
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