Economy
The economy is an essential attribute of power and a major component of international relations. While geopolitical tensions are on the rise, economic interdependence remains strong.
Related Subjects

China and the New Geopolitics of Technical Standardization
China is rapidly emerging as a formidable power in the development of technical standards, transforming the international standard-setting landscape and reintroducing an element of geopolitics into what are too often considered as benign, technical processes.
Sanctions and the End of Trans-Atlanticism. Iran, Russia, and the Unintended Division of the West
Sanctions have become the dominant tool of statecraft of the United States and other Western states, especially the European Union, since the end of the Cold War.
Korea in Africa: Between Soft Power and Economic Interests
Through development assistance and economic engagement, South Korea has sought to project itself as a different kind of partner for Africa. In reality, it is not so unique.
China’s Smart Cities: The New Geopolitical Battleground
“Smart city” development has become a fashionable policy and research topic. A growing number of central and local governments in Europe, Asia, Africa and Latin America, in partnership with companies from diverse sectors (construction, transport, energy, water, etc), consulting firms, NGOs and experts, are now developing smart-city-related projects.
What Is a Think Tank?
When I was laying the foundations for the French Institute of International Relations (Ifri)1 in 1978 and 1979, only a select few in France were familiar with the English term “think tank” and had at least an approximate idea of what it covered.
This term has become fashionable but still has no consensual definition.
Ten Years Ahead: Insights Into the Agendas of International Think Tanks
A panel with Michael Fullilove, executive director, Lowy Institute (Australia), Rohinton P. Medhora, president, Centre for International Governance Innovation (Canada), Samir Saran, president, Observer Research Foundation (India), Patrycja Sasnal, head of research and senior fellow for the Middle East, Polish Institute of International Affairs (Poland), and Carlos Ivan Simonsen Leal, president, Getulio Vargas Foundation (Brazil), moderated by Thomas Gomart, director, French Institute of International Relations (France) as part of the 12th regional conference of Council of Councils (CoC), which unfolded from November 17 to 19, 2019 at Ifri.
What Is a Think Tank? A French Perspective
The French Institute of International Relations (Ifri) celebrated its 40th anniversary in the spring of 2019, in a completely different environment to when it was founded, which was dominated by the competition between the two “superpowers” of the time, the United States and the Soviet Union (USSR).
The Changing Political Agenda and Role of Think Tanks in the Next Decade. Video
A debate in the framework of the 12th regional conference of Council of Councils (CoC) in Paris between Thierry de Montbrial, Executive Chairman of Ifri and Richard N. Haass, President of Council on Foreign Relations (CFR). Moderator: Sophie Pedder, Paris Bureau Chief, The Economist.
What Is Digital Power?
Digital power refers to any actor’s ability to exploit digital data to help influence the behavior of other actors on the international stage and to achieve its own ends. It is about understanding how it influences events in the real world, despite its “intangible” nature.
The Sanctions Policy of the European Union: Multilateral Ambitions Versus Power Politics
Restrictive measures are a major instrument of the European Union (EU)’s external action, which has emerged as one of the world’s leading sanctions emitters. The EU has thus leveraged the size of its market and its economic and financial clout (trade relations, aid policy and bilateral agreements).
Support independent French research
Ifri, a foundation recognized as being of public utility, relies largely on private donors – companies and individuals – to guarantee its sustainability and intellectual independence. Through their funding, donors help maintain the Institute's position among the world's leading think tanks. By benefiting from an internationally recognized network and expertise, donors refine their understanding of geopolitical risk and its consequences on global politics and the economy. In 2024, Ifri will support more than 70 French and foreign companies and organizations.
