The Franco-British Council is an independent organisation based in Paris and London. Our mission is to reflect the wide relationships between the two nations and promote constructive dialogue for enhanced future collaboration.
The Council was founded in 1972 on the joint initiative of President Georges Pompidou and Prime Minister Edward Health, in a context of a developing Europe and of an increasingly globalised community. Since then, it has dedicated itself to the promotion of a better mutual understanding and the development of joint action through bringing together leading representatives of the worlds of culture, politics, defence, science, education and business.
More than 40 years after its creation, in the current geopolitical context and the aftermath of Brexit, the Council’s mission resonates even more. Now more than ever, strong ties need to continue to be built between both nations, providing even more opportunities for people to engage at all levels.
The Council is a non-governmental organisation with charitable status. It has a bilateral governance with members and trustees in both countries. It receives funding from the British and French governments and generous partners.
Today, we deliver our mission through five pillars:
- Franco-British Young Leaders Programme
- Franco-British Local Leaders Programme
- Defence
- Energy, Climate Change and Sustainability
- Science and Society
Alongside these programmes, the Council organises a number of events in both countries throughout the year, for example, seminars on the consequences of Brexit, the Erasmus programme, the impact of the COVID crisis on French and British economies.
Jersey
In 2025, the Franco-British Council and the Government of Jersey announced a five-year partnership for the period 2025-2030 as part of working together to enhance Franco-British cooperation.
The Government of Jersey will participate in all activities of the Franco-British Council including Energy, Climate Change and Sustainability, Defence, Science and Society, and with a particular focus on the Franco-British Young Leaders Programme.
This partnership includes two annual places on the Franco-British Young Leaders Programme for young professionals with connections to Jersey. The selection process will follow the same criteria and be overseen by the secretariat of the Franco-British Council.
Young people with connections to Jersey will also be eligible for the Franco-British Local Leaders Programme.
In addition Jersey will host visits and events in partnership with the Franco-British Council to promote Jersey’s deep-rooted Franco-British ties.
Our Chairs
Our Trustees
French Board
British Board
