Ali Akinci is a strategic thinker with expertise in security, defence and foreign policy, with more than fifteen years of experience across government, advisory, and think tank environments. His work spans geopolitics, foresight, policy, strategy, and stakeholder engagement, giving him a broad perspective on how public institutions, private actors, and international organisations can work together more effectively.
Throughout his career, Ali has worked closely with EU institutions, NATO, member states, and international partners to strengthen dialogue and build enduring relationships. He is committed to connecting ideas, people, and organisations in support of practical responses to today’s most complex global challenges.
At CEPS, Ali leads the organisation’s strategic modernisation efforts, helping to align its work with the evolving needs of the policy community. He oversees external engagement, partnerships, and collaboration with CEPS members and stakeholders, supporting CEPS’s role as a trusted and relevant platform in the European policy landscape. In addition, Ali has a dedicated focus on security and defence research, contributing directly to the design and implementation of relevant initiatives and projects.
Ali holds degrees from Leiden University, Leicester Business School, and Arnhem Business School, and is currently specialising in International Relations at King’s College London with a particular focus on Strategy, Statecraft & Sanctions, Intelligence and Strategic Studies.