The Ditchley Foundation is a British nonprofit organisation focused on international relations and policy dialogue. Established in 1958 as a privately funded charity by philanthropist Sir David Wills, it operates from Ditchley Park in Oxfordshire. Registered under charity number 309657, its mission centres on advancing global understanding through conferences that address peace, freedom, and international order[1][4].

History

Founded in the post-World War II era to strengthen British-American relations, the foundation initially prioritised sustaining the Transatlantic Alliance[4][5]. Over time, its scope expanded to include broader global challenges, with conferences now addressing issues such as security, governance, and technological innovation[2][5].

Leadership

Notable figures have shaped the foundation’s direction. Its first chairman was historian Sir John Wheeler-Bennett, appointed in 1958[1]. Subsequent leaders include former Prime Minister Sir John Major (chairman 2000–2009), NATO Secretary-General George Robertson (chairman 2010–2017), and Jonathan Hill, Baron Hill of Oareford (chairman since 2017)[1]. Directors have included diplomats such as Sir Jeremy Greenstock (2004–2010) and Sir John Holmes (2010–2016), with James Arroyo, OBE, serving as director since 2016[1][2].

Activities

The foundation hosts 10–12 annual conferences at Ditchley Park, convening 40 experts per event for confidential, discussion-focused dialogues[5]. Topics range from geopolitical strategy to public health crises, including recent discussions on UK-US relations and pandemic response[3][5]. Outputs include policy summaries published by the director, though proceedings remain private to encourage open debate[5].

Sister organisations

Collaboration with the American Ditchley Foundation and Canadian Ditchley Foundation facilitates cross-border exchanges, including biennial US-hosted conferences[5]. These partnerships aim to diversify perspectives and foster multilateral solutions to global challenges[5].

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ditchley_Foundation [2] https://www.ditchley.com [3] https://www.ditchley.com/about [4] https://www.ditchley.com/our-story [5] https://www.americanditchley.org