Foreign Policy Institute (FPI)

The Foreign Policy Institute (FPI) is an independent think tank conducting academic and analytical research in the field of foreign policy. It carries out studies on Turkish foreign and security policies as well as on major global and regional issues. Founded in 1974 by Seyfi Taşhan, the Institute aims to contribute to policy formulation by developing policy recommendations related to the implementation of Turkish foreign policy. It also seeks to enhance Türkiye’s international visibility and articulate its foreign policy positions through cooperation with other think tanks at both national and international levels.

In pursuit of these objectives, the Institute has maintained close cooperation, particularly with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as with academics, diplomats, and policymakers from various countries. It has organized numerous international conferences and seminars and has published a wide range of reports and analytical studies. It is Türkiye’s first think tank in this field.

Europe and Türkiye’s European vocation constitute a significant component of the Institute’s joint programs with counterpart institutions. In 1978, FPI organized the first international think tank conference on Türkiye and the European Community and has since participated in and organized many national and international conferences.

FPI is a member of EuroMeSCo (Euro-Mediterranean Studies Network), a think tank network focusing on the Euro-Mediterranean region. It is also among the founding members of the Mediterranean Study Commission, which conducts policy-oriented analyses on Mediterranean affairs. The Institute has cooperated with numerous domestic and foreign think tanks. In this context, Seyfi Taşhan served on the board of the East-West Security Studies Institute, an organization active in the field of international security.

The  Foreign Policy Magazine (Dış Politika Dergisi) began publication in 1971. Containing analyses, articles, and commentaries on Türkiye’s foreign policy, the journal was initially published regularly in Turkish and English at three- or four-month intervals.

As of 2025, FPI has also launched the  Global Perspective Magazine, which publishes articles providing analytical assessments of international relations, geopolitics, security policies, and the foreign policies of states.

In recent years, the Institute has placed increased emphasis on educational programs. Within this framework, it organizes certified internship and training programs featuring presentations by academics and diplomats, practical training programs such as project-writing workshops, and preparatory programs for those seeking a professional career in the field of foreign affairs.

The Foreign Policy Institute maintains close ties with the Foundation for International Relations and Strategic Studies.