The world is becoming more interdependent through travel, trade and communications. What happens in one part of the world – whether political, economic or social – directly affects our own security, prosperity and the way we live our daily lives.

The world is getting smaller and foreign policy is no longer foreign!

We work with a number of UK individuals and groups who help us both at home and overseas to meet the challenges we face.

Business

Supporting UK businesses overseas is a key task for the Foreign Office. The UK faces growing competitive pressure both on inward and outward investment, so engagement with business therefore matters more and more.

We work with UKTI  [opens a new website] which brings together ourselves and the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform, to support of UK companies doing business internationally, and overseas companies who want to set up here.

We promote UK business worldwide through our global network of embassies, high commissions and other offices overseas. We have more 'branch' offices around the world than most multinationals, and we encourage UK firms to make good use of them.

The travel and insurance industries are also key partners in the development and conduct of our consular business and travel advice. Businesses are also major users of the UK Border Agency [opens a new website] and consular services.

Trades Unions

As economic decisions become more global, British trades unions are more involved with international organisations and their counterparts overseas. They have also long played a wider international role in helping promote democracy and human rights.

We work with the UK Trades Union Congress on a number of projects around the world. In Brazil, for instance, we fund a scheme aimed at strengthening labour laws and improving the capacity for settling disputes.

Faith groups

Many UK faith groups maintain a strong interest in international affairs and have particular expertise and networks, which can supplement and complement our own information and contacts.

Religious leaders and faith groups can play an important role in preventing and resolving conflict, and in pursuing poverty reduction and human rights - all important priorities for us.

We talk regularly to a wide range of faith groups, and take part in or host inter-faith discussions, receptions and other events.

If you are interested in a particular country then the British Embassy or High Commission there is likely to be your best initial contact point. For details  visit UK Embassies Overseas section of our website.

For information on our policies in particular parts of the world please see Country Profiles section of our website.

Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs)

We keep up contacts with a wide range of NGOs, both in the UK and internationally, through our network of overseas posts. This can range from formal consultation and joint delegations to international meetings, to informal contacts to share information and views. We also sometimes undertake joint projects.

Many NGOs have international networks whose contacts, expertise and insights can offer different views and ensure that we have a more rounded understanding of international issues.

They are also well-placed to give practical assistance to support projects to develop democratic practices, safeguard human rights or build confidence between communities in conflict.