Spain and the United States - Real Instituto Elcano

THE ELCANO ROYAL INSTITUTE
FOR INTERNATIONAL AND STRATEGIC STUDIES
The Elcano Royal Institute for International and Strategic Studies is a
foundation, independent of both the government and the companies which
largely finance it. Its task is to study the interests of Spain and Spaniards in
international society and to place the fruit of its labours at the disposal of all
Spaniards. In this sense, the Institute defines itself as an institution, which is
non-partisan, but not neutral, and develops a strategic and global perspective,
with a clearly forward-looking approach. The Institute uses multidisciplinary
academic methods and techniques which serve both public and private
viewpoints and generate political and social proposals which are at the same
time practical and applicable.
The Institute actively seeks the achievement of peace in international
relations, economic cooperation and solidarity between states and peoples,
respect for human rights, and the promotion of processes of democratic
transition and consolidation of democratic values.
The Institute’s Board of Trustees balances public and private interests and
those of the government and the opposition. It includes the former prime
ministers Leopoldo Calvo-Sotelo and Felipe González; the ministers of
Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Defence, Economy and Culture; the
chairmen of large companies that have joined the project contributing in an
essential way to its financing, and finally, a member at the proposal of the
leading opposition party. Under the patronage of H.R.H. The Prince of
Asturias, the Board of Trustees is presided by Gustavo Suárez Pertierra, a
former Minister of Defence and of Education and Science.
As well as the members of the Elcano Royal Institute’s Board of Trustees,
another group of firms, which also make a significant contribution to its
upkeep, sit on the Business Advisory Council as collaborating members.
Lastly, an Academic Council made up of academics, politicians, businessmen