The French Institute of International Relations was founded in 1979 by Thierry de Montbrial, its President. Ifri is a non-profit organization of public interest.

Ifri's articles of association guarantee its independence, for its Board of Directors is composed exclusively of competent members, without any government supervision.

Ifri's aim is to promote debate on international issues through its meetings and research studies. The absence of dogmatism and the diversity of its researchers assure its neutrality.

The main trends of its research activities and their quality are assessed by the Strategic Advisory Board, which is composed of prominent French and foreign figures.

Appraisal proceedings with internal and external assessment guarantee the high level of Ifri's research studies and publications.