Focus Areas
GMF works on issues critical to transatlantic interests in the 21st century, including the future of democracy, security and geopolitics, alliances and the rise of China, and technology and innovation.Democracy
The surge of authoritarian threats, political polarization, and widening social inequalities continue to fuel democratic backsliding and undermine the democratic values on which our systems and institutions rest. The urgency to confront these global crises require societies to strengthen their resilience and reimagine democracy’s future.
Global Implications of China's Rise
In a world reshaped by China’s growing economic might and influence, the United States and Europe have struggled to adjust and respond to this new geopolitical reality. As the implications of China’s rise prove costly, the ability to compete and defend will require coordinated action.
Security and Geopolitics
The international order faces mounting pressure. Revisionist states, emerging powers, and new threats proliferate. Cooperation between the United States and Europe is foundational to meeting today’s security and geopolitical challenges.
Technology and Innovation
Emerging technologies and innovations are rapidly changing the world around us, bringing new opportunities for connectivity and economic growth, while also deepening the digital divide. As trends in technology accelerate, leveraging and safeguarding their use and monitoring the pace in which they progress will be crucial.
Cities and Regions
From addressing climate change to fortifying democracy, cities and their residents are on the frontlines of problem-solving and innovation in transatlantic policies and practices. GMF’s high-impact gatherings, peer exchanges, and applied research spark transformative change that can be replicated at scale in other places.
Civil Society
Vibrant civil society is a cornerstone of democracy. Civil society organizations, independent media outlets, civic initiatives, watchdogs, advocacy and charitable groups play a key role in empowering citizens, building communities, fostering societal debate, shaping public policy, and holding governments accountable.
Disinformation
Authoritarian regimes and their proxies use social media, other online information platforms, and traditional media to attempt to shape global and domestic narratives; to sow chaos and confusion in democracies; and to undermine democratic processes.
Transatlantic Relations
Transatlantic relations have been the cornerstone of GMF’s research agenda and convening activities since the founding of the organization in 1972. Bringing together cross-regional expertise from more than 100 experts, GMF’s work unfolds concrete policy impact in the transatlantic sphere, as demonstrated by GMF’s conceptual work on a Modern Marshall Plan for Ukraine.
Elections
Elections are a hallmark of democracy, making them prime targets for autocratic interference. GMF tracks elections across the world, analyzing the threats facing countries’ election infrastructure and electoral processes, as well as providing steps nations can take to secure them.
Ukraine
Amid Russia's war on Ukraine, GMF provides insights, commentary, and analysis on the country's recovery and reconstruction.