What we read
The ball of illusions. What France believes, what the world sees
This book is the result of a survey on the image of France abroad: by asking people all over the world about their vision of the country, we were able to find out how France is perceived abroad.
Our publications
our contributions
Reinforcing the spirit of defence in higher education in the Paris region
The Institut des Hautes Études de Défense Nationale, the Île-de-France Academic Region and the Paris Defence and Security Zone have signed an ambitious partnership agreement to develop the spirit and culture of defence among students in the Île-de-France region. A joint commitment to forge lasting links between academia, the armed forces and young people.
A new partnership to promote equal opportunities and civic engagement
The Institut des Hautes Études de Défense Nationale and the Un Avenir Ensemble foundation have signed a partnership agreement designed to encourage the diversification of audiences and strengthen the civic commitment of young people. This cooperation is based on shared values: equal opportunities, national cohesion and a spirit of defence.
Martial Foucault: «Globalisation is increasingly perceived as an area of rivalry».»
At a time when «states are pursuing strategic objectives using economic instruments», Martial Foucault, a political economy researcher and Director of the Strategic Research Institute at the École Militaire, puts the spotlight back on the notion of ’militarised interdependence« or the »weaponisation of globalisation«. Interview.
Tehran-Washington 1979-2025. The Great Satan put to the test by the Islamic Revolution
18 May 2026 | 18:30 at the École militaire
British defence policy
This fact sheet looks at the history and foundations of British defence policy, reviewing the development of the «special relationship» with the United States and the United Kingdom's anchorage in NATO. It then shows how the Strategic Defence Review published in 2025 represents a turning point, establishing a «NATO-First» posture, refocusing on Euro-Atlantic security and explicitly preparing for a high-intensity conflict. Finally, it highlights the strategic role that the UK could play in the defence of Europe, particularly at the interface between NATO and the EU, as the transatlantic link recomposes itself.
Raoul Castex: an admiral strategist at the heart of the spirit of defence
To mark the 90e As the IHEDN celebrates its 400th anniversary and the French Navy celebrates its 400th anniversary, we look back at the life of Admiral Raoul Castex (1878-1968), founder of the Institute. An exceptional sailor and major military theorist, he was able to impose a global vision of strategy that still informs our thinking today.
