Our purpose is to provide an open forum for debate for EU and national policymakers, NGOs, business leaders, media and civil society. Our different event formats have in common an informal and lively style, and they attract leading EU and international personalities. They offer ample opportunity for networking and discussion, and stimulate media interest in sometimes obscure EU issues. More than a traditional think-tank, Friends of Europe aims to stimulate debate beyond the usual Brussels crowd. Our recent series of Atlantic Rendez-Vous debates linked the EU and the US by satellite to discuss common policy priorities. Go to What we do to find out more.

Our portfolio of events and the reports arising from them mean that Friends of Europe is present on almost all EU-related issues, but especially in five important areas: EU institutional reform; Improving EU communication with its citizens; EU relations with its near neighbours; Energy and environment; and Europe's social challenges. Our reports are written in a clear and accesible style, making the findings easily digestible for European citizens, policymakers and industry leaders alike. Our policy journal, Europe's World, is the only pan-European publication of its kind, containing articles from authoritative contributors and read by top EU and national leaders. Go to Publications.

Friends of Europe aims for transparency and clarity, to make sense of the EU debate. Whether via our events or publications, we target and follow through on key issues that keep cropping up in the European agenda. We have ongoing and active relationships with the media in member states as well as in Brussels, which ensures that we reach a maximum number of Europe's citizens. We also facilitate contact between the media and our most notable speakers and trustees. For further information see our Press desk.

Friends of Europe's activities are directed by a board of trustees that is truly European. Under the chairmanship of Viscount Etienne Davignon, one of the masterminds of European integration, the board is made up of men and women from different walks of life, who hold positions of senior responsibility in European affairs. They are men and women who have in common a commitment to the European project, and whose influence also spreads beyond the fringes of the EU. Find out Who we are.

Our membership base, which continues to grow at an impressive pace, is made up of major corporations, trade associations, NGOs, diplomatic missions, chambers of commerce, academics, press and regional bodies. Our membership packages genuine opportunities to contribute to our events programme and to gain visibility through Friends of Europe. Many of our members become major partners for our annual summits, and have a chance to get involved by speaking at and contributing to the agenda on subjects such as energy, the Balkans, demographics and environment. Go to Membership.