Atlanticism

Atlanticism: should the UK have a different foreign policy to America? From Reagan and Thatcher, to Bush and Blair, Post-Imperial Britain’s foreign policy has often gone hand in hand with America. For many, this is both logical and inevitable. With America’s dominant cultural, military and economic might, as well as the two nations' deep historical and philosophical ties, it is in Britain’s interest to maintain its position as one of America’s closest allies and support its foreign policy ventures. However, this idea is being increasingly questioned. With American geopolitical authority undermined by the war in Iraq and Afghanistan, and the rise in isolationist voices within the American establishment, some believe that we cannot uncritically follow America’s lead. Further, as power shifts to the East and Europe becomes increasingly fragmented, it is argued that Britain must work out its own place in this new era, irrespective of America. Does the so-called ‘special relationship’ still exist? Given Britain is not a Great Power anymore, is it realistic for us to have a completely independent foreign policy? How should the UK approach rising antagonistic or hostile powers such as China, Iran and Russia? Join Civic Future and Reaction to discuss all of this and more. Speakers: Angus Hanton, Author of Vassal State: How America Runs Britain (2024) Philip Cunliffe, Associate Professor of International Relations, UCL; co-author of Taking Control: Sovereignty and Democracy After Brexit (2023) Richard Johnson, Senior Lecturer in US Politics & Policy, QMUL Kathleen Burk, Professor of Modern and Contemporary History at UCL Chair: Iain Martin, Founder, Reaction; columnist, Times; director, London Defence Conference