Brussels International Center (BIC)

About us

Our Mission & Values

The Brussels International Center (BIC) is an independent, non-profit, think-and-do tank, led by Ambassador Marc Otte, former European Union's Special Representative to the Middle East Peace Process. The BIC is committed to developing solutions to address the cyclical drivers of insecurity, economic fragility, and conflict in the wider Middle East region and Africa. In addition, we strive to promote the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by analysing the historical, economic, social, and political factors influencing the current complex and global issues. We use our research to provide forward-thinking and practical solutions to policy-makers, governments, and civil society by bringing systemic issues to the forefront of the conversation. The BIC's line of work also aligns with key EU policies, addressing areas such as climate action through the European Green Deal and FIT for 55, resource security via the Critical Raw Materials Act, strategic defense under the Strategic Compass, and migration management through the EU Migration Deal.

BIC is committed to a multifaceted approach to conflict that incorporates robust analyses of the intersectionality between local factors, geopolitical trends, socioeconomic and gender inequalities, and neocolonial dynamics. We use a combination of interdisciplinary strengths, research specializations and unique cultural experiences to produce valuable insights into fragile and conflict affected situations, conducting both qualitative and quantitative analysis, while providing data-driven recommendations.

Our Goal

Our goal is to use research to inform policy-makers and build partnerships. We create impact by engaging leaders at the national, regional, and international level in constructive dialogues that facilitate deeper learning, move past superficial talking points, and address systemic issues that often go overlooked. By creating collaborative spaces that engage leaders, civil society, and ordinary people in challenging debates, we seek to re-conceptualize the way in which all stakeholders relate to policy by translating multifaceted challenges into pragmatic, understandable, and usable solutions. The BIC builds connections. Between leaders, researchers, communities, and civil society. We hope that these bridges will help break down cultural boundaries, and promote more peaceful and resilient societies.