A message from the President

As we enter 2026, the global order is undergoing a series of pivotal shifts. The United States has a new National Security Strategy which emphasises sovereignty, border control, military strength, economic independence, technological leadership, and a new focus on the Western Hemisphere. At the same time, China’s sustained investment in infrastructure, manufacturing modernisation, tech self-reliance, and critical minerals continues to reinforce its status as a global power, influencing the international agenda and shaping new norms. Across Europe, these shifts reverberate through economies and social systems alike, as governments strive to respond to complex challenges to security – while reinforcing societal and institutional resilience.

Faced with this context, the need for evidence-based policymaking has never been greater. RAND Europe’s research continues to help leaders navigate this geopolitical instability, ensuring rigorous analysis is translated into real-world impact.

The theme of impact lies at the heart of RAND Europe’s work and is a central focus of Spotlight 2025–2026. From evolving perceptions of nuclear deterrence to examining the strategic importance of space as both an opportunity and a risk, and from advancing innovation in healthcare to addressing the rising challenge of youth violence, RAND Europe remains at the forefront of the critical issues shaping the future of the UK, Europe, and the world.

Our reach also extends beyond Europe to the Middle East and further afield, where RAND Europe contributes to international dialogue and policy development.

But impact goes further than our research findings. In 2025, we amplified our reach and influence through new initiatives designed to connect evidence with action. We launched our Data Science Lab to harness the potential of AI and advanced analytics in shaping future research, introduced a webinar series bringing together RAND Europe experts and industry leaders to debate pressing global challenges, and convened the Foresight Forum to explore the trends redefining policy and strategy.

In January 2026, I am proud that we will host our inaugural Impact and Innovation Forum, uniting policymakers, researchers, and partners to address the UK’s most complex economic, societal, and security challenges.

Finally, our heartfelt thanks are extended to our partners, clients, and grantors. Your valued support and collaboration enhance our ability to achieve our goal of improving policy and decision making through rigorous analysis and objective research. Thank you for your ongoing engagement with RAND Europe.