Established in 2001, GMF’s Brussels office is a center for transatlantic debate and analysis and one of the leading U.S. international policy institutions in Europe. The office brings U.S. perspectives to European policy audiences and is a center for GMF outreach to EU institutions, NATO, and the diplomatic, business, media, and academic communities. With a multinational staff of around 30 and a network of resident and visiting fellows, GMF Brussels covers the full range of transatlantic issues and serves as the European hub for activities across GMF. These include the Alliance for Securing Democracy, Mediterranean, Turkey, Asia, security and defense, and digital programs. Hosting over 60 events each year, the Brussels office provides a platform for high-level convening, research, and analysis on transatlantic themes and strategies. GMF’s annual Brussels Forum brings together some 500 leaders from government, the private sector, and civil society for three days of debate among policymakers and opinion-shapers and is a key fixture on the transatlantic calendar.

GMF Brussels plays a central role in engaging in partnerships for research and support to civil society and plays a leading role in GMF’s work on diversity and inclusion. It maintains a standing relationship with The Brussels Binder, a database of female experts, created by a network of think tanks in Brussels to contribute to greater gender diversity in policy debates. 

The executive director of the Brussels Office is Dr. Ian O. Lesser, who as vice president is also a member of GMFs executive team.