Explore short, accessible pieces of analysis, research and commentary, on topical issues related to foreign policy and our changing world.
BFPG’s October 2025 Review
A review of BFPG’s activities and responses to the major global events of October 2025.
Britain’s Hard-Nosed Turn in Foreign Policy: Calculated or Cautious?
Eliza Keogh explores shifting public attitudes, as Britons value pragmatism in foreign policy, backing trade and aid that deliver economic and security returns over values.
BFPG’s September 2025 Review
A review of BFPG’s activities and responses to the major global events of September 2025.
Giving defence the respect it’s due: from National Security Strategy to a Realist(ic) Way Forward
Senior Advisor David Landsman argues that while Britain’s security reviews are technically impressive, they lack a clear definition of national interest, honesty about resources, and public support.
BFPG’s Summer 2025 Review
A review of BFPG’s activities over July and August of 2025.
A Pragmatic But Uncomfortable Special Relationship
Ahead of President Trump’s first visit to the UK of his second term, BFPG Director Evie Aspinall examines the stark evolution of UK‑US relations, as seen by the public.
From Diplomat to Content Creator: How Ambassadors’ Roles have Changed Since 2017
BFPG Associate Fellow Michael Martins explores how the role of Ambassadors has changed in today’s diplomatic environment.
A Year of Progressive Realism
BFPG Associate Fellow James Jennion reviews the direction, and level of success, of Labour’s ‘progressive realism’ approach, as we mark the Government’s first year in office.
BFPG’s June 2025 Review
A review of BFPG’s activities and responses to the major global events of June 2025.
The King’s Speech from the Throne and The Future of UK-Canada Relations
Sofia Pennachietti explores what King Charles III’s Speech from the Throne, opening Canada’s parliament, can tell us about the future of UK-Canadian relations.
The UK’s New Defence Posture is Bold – but Washington will want Proof, not Promises
Assosciate Fellow Michael Martins explores how the Strategic Defence Review will be viewed in Washington.
Effective Parliamentary Scrutiny of Foreign, Defence and Security Policy
Eliot Wilson explores the importance, and contemporary shortcomings, of rigorous oversight into UK national security matters.
The Strategic Defence Review: 10 Key Takeaways
BFPG Director Evie Aspinall summarises the key takeaways from 2025 Strategic Defence Review and what it means for the future of UK defence and security.
Rhetorical Distance, Structural Depth: UK–US Ties in the Trump–Starmer Era
BFPG Associate Fellow Michael Martins explores the future of the UK-EU relationship, as President Trump upends established norms and turbulence in US foreign policy continues to ripple through the world.
BFPG’s May 2025 Review
A review of BFPG’s activities and responses to the major global events of May 2025.
BFPG’s April 2025 Review
A review of BFPG’s activities and responses to the major global events of April 2025.
After 100 Days of Trump, Where Next for the Transatlantic Relationship?
BFPG Director Evie Aspinall considers the future of the UK’s approach to the transatlantic relationship, with President Trump in the Oval Office.
Making Britain Relevant Again
BFPG Senior Advisor David Landsman sets out the need for a new agile approach to the UK’s foreign policy.
BFPG’s March 2025 Review
A review of BFPG’s activities and responses to the major global events of March 2025.
Why a multilateral defence and security bank?
David Landsman and Rebecca Harding consider the economic, security, and soft power benefits of UK leadership within a potential new multilateral defence and security bank.
BFPG’s February 2025 Review
A review of BFPG’s activities and responses to the major global events of February 2025.
The UK’s Role in the Horn of Africa
Eliot Wilson considers what a strategic and joined-up approach to security and development should look like across the Horn of Africa.
The US-China Balancing Act
Associate Fellow James Jennion explores the balancing act that faces the UK when it comes to managing future relations with both the United States and China.
Getting Serious About Defence? First Get Serious About Foreign Policy
Senior Advisor David Landsman explores why a coherent defence strategy must start with both tactical thinking around foreign policy and a rediscovery of national identity.
Fostering Resilience in the Commonwealth: Opportunities for UK Leadership in Trade, Climate Action, and Digital Innovation
Question Jaden Ramontsho explores how the UK can best take a leadership role in the Commonwealth, as the grouping encounters growing, bordeless challenges.