The mission of Chatham House is to be a world-leading source of independent analysis, informed debate and influential ideas on how to build a prosperous and secure world for all. Chatham House was founded in 1920 and is based in St James's Square, London.

The Chatham House Rule, famous for facilitating free speech and confidentiality at meetings, originated here.

Research is core to all Chatham House activities. We undertake independent and rigorous analysis with the aim of setting the agenda and shaping policy by encouraging new ideas and forward thinking in international affairs.

Chatham House is also home to the internationally renowned journal International Affairs and the magazine The World Today, each published six times a year.

Chatham House regularly hosts high-profile speakers from around the world in a packed programme of events and conferences as well as organizing and participating in a number of events and conferences elsewhere in the UK and overseas.

Our members encompass a diverse range of backgrounds and professions including academics, diplomats, the media, NGOs, politicians, policy-makers, researchers and business people.

In addition to our publications and events our researchers regularly provide commentary in the media and evidence to Parliamentary Committees.