Evidence-based analysis on European strategic autonomy. Filter by sector or search the archive.
As climate policy becomes increasingly contested, Europe must adapt its Green Deal to a new political era. The first policy brief in the New Politics project outlines five new deals to make the transition more durable, popular and politically resilient.
The Russian threat is not going away any time soon. To defend themselves without America’s help, Europeans need to pursue a new, distinctly European model of defence and deterrence
The EU can exploit its system to say no to China—now, and long into the future
Ten years on from the referendum, the British electorate has moved on from its old divisions and—in a world of crisis—is embracing an ambitious move back towards the European Union
Europe’s security architecture is undergoing profound change. As the US reassesses its global priorities and questions grow over the future of transatlantic security, European governments face mounting pressure to strengthen their defence capabilities and rethink longstanding assumptions about NATO. In the second episode of Making Defence European Again, Celia Bélin, policy fellow and head of…
As Russia’s war against Ukraine continues, European governments are facing difficult questions about military support, diplomacy and the long-term security of the continent. How should Europe balance continued assistance to Ukraine with preparations for future negotiations? In the final episode of Making Defence European Again, Celia Bélin, policy fellow and head of ECFR’s Paris office,…
A nuclear deterrent does not preclude major war. Putin has learnt this lesson—now Europe needs to do the same.
Mark Leonard welcomes Mike Kuiken and Randy Schriver to examine the evolving US-China relationship and what it means for Europe
The next industrial revolution will be built with microbes as much as machines. China understands this. Europe still has the science to compete but must act quickly before industrial leadership slips away again
As Andy Burnham prepares to become the UK's next prime minister, one question looms larger than any domestic policy announcement: what will his foreign policy look like? This timely analysis from the European Council on Foreign Relations argues that while Burnham has a compelling vision for revitalising Britain's regions, he will quickly discover that delivering economic renewal at home depends on making strategic choices abroad. The article explores how Burnham is likely to balance continuity with change—maintaining support for Ukraine and NATO while potentially reshaping Britain's relationships with Europe, the United States, and emerging global powers. It examines the geopolitical realities that could force a leader focused on domestic renewal to become an international strategist, particularly in areas such as trade, technology, supply chains, AI, and economic security. Rather than offering speculation, the piece connects Burnham's political instincts with the strategic challenges facing Britain in an increasingly fragmented world. It highlights the difficult trade-offs between economic resilience, international cooperation, and national security, and considers how Britain's future role in Europe and the G20 could define the next chapter of its global influence. For anyone interested in UK politics, foreign policy, or Europe's changing geopolitical landscape, this article provides a concise yet insightful preview of the strategic decisions that could shape Britain's international position for years to come.