Tony Blair Institute for Global Change

Tony Blair Institute for Global Change
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Name	Tony Blair Institute for Global Change
Founded	December 2016
Founder	Tony Blair
Type	Non-profit
Focus	Public policy, Global governance, Economic development
Headquarters	London, United Kingdom
Key people	Tony Blair (Executive Chairman), Ruth Davidson (Vice President, Public Leadership)
Website	https://www.institute.global/

Tony Blair Institute for Global Change. A non-profit organization founded in December 2016 by former British Prime Minister Tony Blair. It operates globally, advising governments on strategy, policy, and delivery to help nations build open, inclusive, and prosperous societies in an era of rapid technological and geopolitical change. The institute combines practical policy advice with long-term analysis of major global trends.

History and establishment

The institute was launched in late 2016, merging several of Blair's existing initiatives, including the Tony Blair Faith Foundation and the Africa Governance Initiative. Its creation marked a consolidation of Blair's post-premiership activities into a single entity focused on addressing complex global challenges. The establishment followed Blair's tenure as Quartet Representative and reflected his ongoing commitment to international engagement. Initial operations were based in London, with a significant expansion of activities across Africa, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe.

Mission and focus areas

The organization's stated mission is to equip political leaders and governments with the strategies, policies, and partnerships needed to help their people thrive. Its work is structured around several interconnected focus areas: promoting effective Governance and state capacity, harnessing technology and fostering Digital transformation, driving inclusive Economic growth, and countering Extremism and polarizing ideologies. A central thesis of its work is that in the 21st century, capable and modernizing states are essential for stability and progress, particularly in regions like the Middle East and Africa.

Organizational structure and leadership

The institute is led by its founder, Tony Blair, who serves as Executive Chairman. Day-to-day operations are managed by a Chief Executive Officer, with regional offices and country teams implementing programs worldwide. Notable senior figures have included Ruth Davidson, the former leader of the Scottish Conservative Party, who joined as Vice President for Public Leadership. The organization is structured into geographic and thematic divisions, including a dedicated Technology and Public Policy unit and the Future of Britain project, which focuses on domestic United Kingdom policy challenges.

Key initiatives and programs

Key initiatives include the **Government Advisory** practice, which works directly with leaders in countries such as Rwanda, Serbia, and Saudi Arabia on economic reform and public service delivery. The **Tech for Development** program assists nations in building digital infrastructure and governance. The **Extremism Policy Unit** conducts research on ideologies like Islamism and provides policy recommendations. In Europe, the institute has launched projects analyzing the impacts of the Green transition and the rise of Artificial intelligence, advising governments from Ukraine to Greece.

Criticism and controversies

The institute has faced criticism over its close advisory relationships with governments accused of human rights abuses, particularly its extensive and lucrative contract with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Its opaque funding model and high consultancy fees have drawn scrutiny from Members of Parliament and media outlets like The Guardian. Critics, including the advocacy group Global Witness, argue its work amounts to legitimizing authoritarian regimes. Blair's own legacy regarding the Iraq War and his post-political commercial activities have also colored perceptions of the institute's motives.

Impact and recognition

Proponents point to its tangible impact in supporting digital ID programs in Ethiopia, vaccine rollout strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic in several African nations, and providing analytical frameworks on geopolitical competition for Western governments. Its reports on topics like Geopolitics of technology and the future of Globalization are cited by institutions like the World Economic Forum and various governments. While not without controversy, the institute maintains it provides a unique, practical service to governments navigating an increasingly complex international landscape. Category:Non-profit organizations based in London Category:Think tanks established in 2016 Category:Organizations founded by Tony Blair