Henry Jackson Society

Henry Jackson Society
Tommoretti5 · CC BY-SA 4.0 · source
Founded	2005
Founders	Brendan Simms, Alan Mendoza
Headquarters	London, United Kingdom
Focus	Foreign policy, International security

Henry Jackson Society. It is a British think tank established in 2005, named after the American Democratic Senator Henry M. Jackson. The organization advocates for a proactive, values-based foreign policy grounded in the principles of liberal democracy, human rights, and a strong transatlantic alliance. Its work spans research, publications, and political advocacy, focusing on issues of international security, geopolitical strategy, and democratic resilience.

History

The organization was founded in 2005 at the University of Cambridge by academics including Professor Brendan Simms and Dr Alan Mendoza. Its establishment was influenced by the political climate following the September 11 attacks and the Iraq War, seeking to promote a robust internationalist stance. Initially based within the university's Faculty of History, it later moved its headquarters to Westminster in London to be closer to the heart of political decision-making. Key early figures and supporters included the historian Andrew Roberts and the former Labour MP Gisela Stuart.

Activities and publications

The organization produces a wide array of publications, including detailed reports, policy briefs, and regular commentaries on global affairs. It hosts numerous events, such as parliamentary briefings, public lectures, and panel discussions, often featuring prominent speakers like former CIA director David Petraeus or NATO officials. Major publication series have covered topics from the challenges posed by the People's Republic of China and the Russian Federation to radicalization within the United Kingdom. It also provides expert testimony to parliamentary committees, including the Foreign Affairs Select Committee and the Defence Select Committee.

Political positions and advocacy

The think tank is known for its strongly Atlanticist and interventionist stance, advocating for a close strategic partnership between the United Kingdom, the United States, and other democratic allies. It has consistently called for a firm posture against regimes in Tehran, Moscow, and Beijing, supporting sanctions and strengthened military capabilities through NATO. It champions the global promotion of liberal democratic values and has been a vocal supporter of initiatives like the Magnitsky Act for targeted sanctions. Its advocacy often emphasizes the threats from Islamist extremism and the strategic challenges of an assertive Chinese Communist Party.

Funding and structure

Operating as a registered charity and a private company limited by guarantee, its funding comes from a mix of private donations, philanthropic grants, and corporate support. While it does not publicly disclose a full list of donors, past reporting has indicated support from figures like the hedge fund manager Paul Marshall and foundations such as the Rosenkranz Foundation. The organizational structure includes a board of trustees, an academic council, and an executive directorate, with Dr Alan Mendoza serving as the long-standing Executive Director. Its research staff often includes former military personnel, diplomats, and security analysts.

Criticism and controversies

The organization has faced significant criticism from various quarters, including allegations of promoting hawkish, neoconservative policies and fostering an anti-Islam narrative. Some left-wing commentators and groups like Stop the War Coalition have accused it of being a driving force behind militaristic foreign policy. It has been criticized for its donor transparency and for the past associations of some of its fellows, such as the far-right activist Stephen Yaxley-Lennon. These controversies have led to debates about its influence within the Conservative Party and its role in shaping the UK's national security discourse.

Category:Think tanks based in London Category:Political and economic think tanks in the United Kingdom Category:Organizations established in 2005