The Centre for Analysis, Planning and Strategy
The Future Leaders Invitation Programme (PIPA) is under the responsibility of the Centre d'Analyse, de Prévision et de Stratégie (CAPS) of the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs. CAPS conducts research on international issues and supports the development of France’s foreign policy.
CAPS provides strategic insight and contributes to the selection of PIPA participants by offering expert analysis to align with France’s diplomatic priorities.
As part of its mission, CAPS provides strategic insight and contributes to shaping the selection process of PIPA participants. While embassies propose candidates, CAPS analysts offer their expertise to ensure alignment with France’s diplomatic priorities.
What is the CAPS?
CAPS has the following tasks:
- It produces forward-looking analyses of medium- and long-term developments in the international environment, whether from a regional or thematic perspective.
- It presents to the Minister, at his request or spontaneously, political recommendations or strategic options concerning France’s foreign policy and the adaptation of its diplomatic apparatus to European and international issues.
- It promotes the debate of ideas and brings out new concepts or ideas by encouraging and enhancing research in international relations.
- It participates in efforts to strengthen the knowledge of France in European and international circles of thought and debate.
How it works?
Although it maintains a permanent link with the various departments of the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, CAPS is characterized by its independence of analysis, recognized and respected: its work and proposals do not commit the department as such nor, a fortiori, the French government. This independence is reflected in a mode of operation that allows it to provide specific insights.
Composed of diplomats, experts seconded from other ministries, and academia, its multidisciplinary team works by integrating insights from diverse sources, including universities, think tanks, specialized services, and NGOs. CAPS also benefits from dedicated research and operational funding, allowing it to commission external expertise and organize conferences or informal discussions.
Its work
The CAPS provides the Minister, officials of the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, and other public decision-makers with information and ideas that are not systematically gathered through traditional channels. To this end, the Centre maintains constant contact: in France, with other government departments, official or independent research centers, and prominent figures from academia and the business world; abroad, the Centre holds regular consultations with planning units of other foreign ministries.