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ECFR Madrid shapes Europe's foreign policy from Spain's capital

From Ukraine to the Mediterranean, this think tank bridges Spain and Europe's biggest challenges. How its research reshapes global policy debates.

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2 min read
The image shows a poster with a map of Europe, highlighting the member countries of the European...
The image shows a poster with a map of Europe, highlighting the member countries of the European Union. The map is detailed, showing the various countries and their borders, as well as their major cities, rivers, and other geographical features. The text on the poster provides additional information about the countries, such as their names and their respective borders.

ECFR Madrid shapes Europe's foreign policy from Spain's capital

The European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) opened its Madrid office in late 2007 with backing from Diego Hidalgo. Led by José Ignacio Torreblanca, the branch has since grown into a key platform for pan-European debate. Its work now spans urgent global issues, from conflicts in the Middle East to economic security challenges.

ECFR was founded in 2007 as a pan-European think tank. It aims to strengthen European foreign policy and reinvigorate the continent's political project. The organisation operates through a Council of over 200 influential figures, research programmes, and offices in seven cities, including Berlin, London, Paris, and Madrid.

The Madrid office was established to serve as Spain's leading pan-European hub. It promotes democratic values and pushes for a more cohesive European foreign policy. Since 2 July 2015, the Spanish branch has been formally registered as the *European Council on Foreign Relations Association*, with Hidalgo, Cristina Manzano, and Torreblanca as its founding members. Today, ECFR Madrid focuses on pressing issues beyond traditional foreign policy. These include the Israel-Iran conflict, potential escalations in Ukraine, and migration pressures in the Mediterranean, particularly affecting Italy. The office also examines Africa's partnerships, such as the UAE's role and ESG standards, alongside economic security concerns like EU-China competition over electric vehicles and the impact of US trade policies. Projects like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) also feature in its research. The office maintains an active media presence and hosts events to dissect contemporary challenges. Through policy reports, public discussions, and advocacy, it works to shape a stronger, more unified European stance on global affairs.

ECFR Madrid continues to expand its influence as a bridge between Spain and broader European policy debates. Its research and events address conflicts, economic rivalry, and strategic partnerships shaping the continent's future. The office remains a central voice in advocating for a more assertive and coordinated European foreign policy.

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