Friends of Europe

Friends of Europe is a not-for-profit think tank, that since 1999 has stimulated discussion and new thinking on political, economic, social and environmental issues that confront Europe and the world. It is located at 4 Rue de la Science, Brussels.

The organisation was established in 1999, and takes the position that it has no declared political or national bias and is independent of EU institutions (although it does receive some funding from them). Its stated goal is to foster open discussion and stimulate new thinking on the issues facing Europe and its citizens.

The Education, Audiovisual and Culture Executive Agency, an agency of the European Union, uses the acronym FoE.

Rettman assessed FoE as having an "openly pro-integration position" about the European Union.

Friends of Europe's self-declared mission statement is:

"Friends of Europe – Les amis de l'Europe is a leading think-tank that aims to stimulate thinking on key global and European political challenges. Our insightful and timely publications and animated debates provide access to sharp analysis and information. We promote the confrontation of ideas that is vital to policymaking and encourage wider involvement in Europe’s future."

According to FoE, the organisation's activities focus on six thematic areas: Future Europe, Global Europe, Security Europe, Smarter Europe, Greener Europe and Quality Europe.

Friends of Europe's board of trustees is composed of people who have contributed to the European project. Its President is Étienne Davignon, a Belgian Minister of State and former vice-president of the European Commission. Trustees include:

Friends of Europe's Secretary-General is Giles Merritt, a former Brussels correspondent of the Financial Times.

In 2014, Friends of Europe’s total revenue was €2,516,969. This money was contributed through membership fees, institutional and governmental subsidies, and contributions to costs of events, reports or structural support to our activities.

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