Strategic outlook: navigating a multi-aligned world (2026-2036)

Across discussions, the emerging global environment was described as “multi‑aligned” – characterised by overlapping coalitions, flexible partnerships and selective alignment rather than rigid blocs. In this context, there was a clear emphasis on the need for the UK and US to remain nimble, pragmatic and proactive in shaping standards, forming alliances and strengthening resilience.

Participants suggested that future UK influence in the US will hinge on:

• its ability to leverage soft power assets strategically
• its credibility as a technology innovator
• its commitment to inclusive, broad‑based people‑to‑people links
• its leadership in plurilateral governance frameworks
• its capacity to engage the US at federal, state and community levels simultaneously

The overarching message was that relationships need to be actively built, maintained and diversified. These cannot rely solely on history nor sentiment.

Policy recommendations

The following ideas emerged for the UK and US governments to consider as they develop bilateral strategies in areas including soft power, regional collaboration and technology:

A. For the UK Government

1. A Soft Power Strategy that prioritises diverse audiences, including younger and digitally‑native communities, with measurable impact indicators.
2. Expanded mobility pathways, including youth mobility visas, reciprocal apprenticeships and research exchange frameworks.
3. A Technology Infrastructure Roadmap addressing energy, data‑centre capacity, regulatory alignment and environmental considerations.

B. For the US Government

1. Maintain bipartisan support for cultural and academic exchange programmes.
2. Support state‑level international engagement particularly with the UK, providing mechanisms for measurable outcomes.
3. Advance cooperative standards on e.g. AI assurance, quantum safety, Privacy Enhancing Technologies (PETs) and space‑traffic management.

C. For both the UK and US

1. Create People‑to‑People partnerships funding scholarships, civic exchanges and regional partnerships.
2. A ‘Subnational Transatlantic Council’ to coordinate across UK regions, devolved governments, US states and cities, universities and businesses.
3. Development of a Transatlantic Standards ‘Sandbox’ for areas including AI, data‑centre sustainability and space.
4. A UK-US Space Innovation Compact covering STEM pipelines, space‑governance norms and small‑satellite clusters.
5. Launch of a shared IP toolkit to streamline SME and university collaboration.
6. Leverage the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics to anchor key moments for cultural diplomacy and regional engagement.

Conclusion

The dialogue concluded that the UK-US relationship is entering a period of profound transformation. While there was still much to celebrate, its future strength will depend on the ability of both countries to invest in inclusive, sustainable and forward‑looking forms of engagement. Soft power, technology leadership, subnational partnerships and resilient people‑to‑people ties will shape the next chapter more than traditional diplomatic channels alone. Maintaining influence in this environment requires strategic confidence, creativity and sustained commitment.

The message throughout the dialogue was clear: the relationship must be constantly worked on, renewed and modernised – not simply remembered.

Philip Everest

Wilton Park | February 2026

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