The 1946 Forum
“Now, at this sad and breathless moment, we are plunged in the hunger and distress which are the aftermath of our stupendous struggle; but this will pass and may pass quickly, and there is no reason except human folly or sub-human crime which should deny to all the nations the inauguration and enjoyment of an age of plenty.”
— Sir Winston Churchill
Co-Chair: The Rt Hon Ranil Jayawardena MP
Co-Chair: The Rt Hon Liam Byrne MP
About the 1946 Forum
The 1946 Forum promotes the transatlantic relationship to lead as a force for good in what Churchill termed an ‘un-united world’. Convening decision-makers from the UK and US, this cross-party international caucus is inspired by Churchill’s 1946 ‘Sinews of Peace’ speech. It champions international development as a foreign policy priority, explores shared geopolitical objectives and advocates for the value of international institutions. It aims to confront the West’s need for an ‘overall strategic concept’ and to ensure that the transatlantic alliance remains at the forefront of saving lives, alleviating poverty and bringing freedom, security and prosperity to those who need it most.
Our Work
In the aftermath of the Second World War, Sir Winston Churchill delivered his assessment of the rebalancing of power and advocated for robust international institutions to uphold the values the Allies had defended. It was in 1946 at Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri that he delivered the ‘Sinews of Peace’ speech and the ‘Special Relationship’ was born.
Inspired by this seminal speech, we created the 1946 Forum. This cross-party caucus works to promote the transatlantic relationship to lead as a force for good in what Churchill termed as an ‘un-united world’.
But what of its relevance today? Our nations remain long standing friends and allies, inited in our shared values of freedom, democracy and prosperity. We are both founding members of NATO, hold key positions of influence in international institutions and provide wide-ranging humanitarian support to countries in need.
As threats to democracy increases and as Russia, China and some non-state actors become increasingly belligerent, bringing distinct challenges to national security and our way of life, the influence of malign actors has already begun to seep into global decision-making. Climate change, health and food security are becoming more acute for developing countries in particular, and only with collaborative action from the whole world can we tackle these global challenges. Facing current geopolitical realities, it’s time for the UK and US to step up to lead as a force for good.
Together we can realise this vision of a strengthened transatlantic alliance with our geostrategic and shared values at its heart.
Latest News from the 1946 Programme
