Charles Grant

Charles Grant

Director
Areas of expertise 

Britain’s relationship with the EU, the ‘future of Europe’ debate, European foreign and defence policy, and China's relations with the West.

Twitter 
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Ten years after the Brexit referendum: The past, present and future of the UK's relationship with the EU

Ten years after the Brexit referendum: The past, present and future of the UK's relationship with the EU

22 June 2026
This collection of short essays asks what leaving the EU means a decade after the divisive referendum, for Britain, for the EU and for the relationship between them.

Ten years after the Brexit referendum: Beyond the reset

22 June 2026
Charles Grant on how much closer UK-EU relations can go – and what could make a more ambitious partnership possible.
The paradox of French power

The paradox of French power

10 December 2025
France has a very weak government with an uncertain future, yet it remains a dominant force in EU policy-making. How does one explain this paradox?
Not a summit of ambition

Not a summit of ambition

12 May 2025
The EU-UK summit should enable leaders to respond to the threatening global situation by putting past differences behind them. However, backward-looking dogma and unnecessary red lines may result in the summit under-achieving.
Does EU enlargement require voting reform?

Does EU enlargement require voting reform?

09 May 2025
Moving away from unanimity is complex and faces much resistance. But it is a question that EU leaders will not be able to avoid in the long run.
Donald Trump's return to office: Ten consequences

Donald Trump's return to office: Ten consequences

28 March 2025
Donald Trump’s second presidency is shaking up the geopolitical landscape. Most of the consequences are harmful, but some are beneficial.
An open letter to Keir Starmer: Ten suggestions on how to foster better relations with Europe

An open letter to Keir Starmer: Ten suggestions on how to foster better relations with Europe

08 July 2024
In an open letter to Keir Starmer, Charles Grant offers ten suggestions on how the Labour government can improve the UK-EU relationship.
What will the EU election results mean for Europe?

What will the EU election results mean for Europe?

11 June 2024
The populist right and far right will not dominate the new European Parliament. But the election results will influence the EU’s agenda and legislation over the next five years.
China and the West: The gap is set to grow

China and the West: The gap is set to grow

05 June 2024
China’s relations with the US and the EU are likely to worsen, because of both its aid for Russia and its economic strategy.
Ten reflections on Jacques Delors

Ten reflections on Jacques Delors

04 January 2024
Jacques Delors’ impact on history, especially during the ten years that he headed the European Commission, was immense.

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