Founded in 1979, the Institute of Policy Studies (IPS), Islamabad, is one of Pakistan’s leading independent think tanks. As an autonomous, non-profit institution, IPS is dedicated to promoting policy oriented research, dialogue, human and technological development for better governance.
For more than four decades, IPS has served as a trusted platform for policymakers, academics, researchers, practitioners, civil society leaders, media professionals, and youth to examine critical national, regional, and global issues. Through evidence-based research, strategic analysis, public engagement, and capacity-building initiatives, the Institute contributes to informed decision-making and effective public policy.
Vision
IPS aims for applied research conducive to meaningful dialogue, sound policies and viable alternatives for facilitating policymakers and safeguarding stakeholders’ interests.
Mission
IPS is devoted to addressing policy-oriented issues concerning Pakistan, region and the world community through applied research, dialogue and publications.
Objectives
To facilitate and assist policymakers in making informed policy decisions with an indigenous approach by analyzing policy proposals and plans, generating ideas, stimulating debates, facilitating dialogues, enhancing awareness, and recommending Viable Solutions
Our Approach
IPS works at the intersection of ideas, policy, and societal transformation. The Institute generates strategic insight, facilitates informed dialogue, and empowers stakeholders to address the opportunities and challenges shaping Pakistan and the wider world.
Policy Research:
Conducting independent and policy-oriented research on national, regional, and global issues to support evidence-based policymaking.
Strategic Dialogue:
Convening conferences, seminars, roundtables, consultations, and policy forums that bring together diverse stakeholders to exchange ideas and explore solutions.
Publications and Knowledge Resources:
Producing books, journals, policy briefs, research reports, and digital content that contribute to policy discourse and public understanding.
Leadership and Capacity Development:
Equipping students, young professionals, researchers, educators, and community leaders with the knowledge, skills, and perspectives needed to address contemporary challenges.
Public Engagement:
Connecting research with society through media outreach, digital platforms, community initiatives, and citizen-centered programs that encourage informed participation in public affairs.
IPS undertakes research and engagement across a range of interconnected policy domains, including:
a) Pakistan Affairs, Science & Technology, and Leadership & Governance
b) International Relations & Strategic Affairs
c) Faith, Society, and Law
Research activities are supported by a network of scholars, researchers, and IPS associates in Pakistan and abroad, enabling both in-house research and collaborative knowledge production.
IPS maintains its independence and long-term sustainability through a diversified support model that includes endowments, memberships, publications, consultancy services, and voluntary contributions.
This approach safeguards the Institute’s autonomy while enabling continued investment in high-quality research, stakeholder engagement, leadership development, and public outreach. Guided by the principles of transparency, accountability, and ethical governance, IPS ensures that its work remains driven by evidence, integrity, and public interest.
By maintaining a resilient institutional foundation, IPS continues to serve as a trusted platform for ideas, dialogue, and policy innovation.
IPS’s academic and research programs are guided by the National Advisory Council (NAC), a distinguished body of scholars, practitioners, and policy experts that provides intellectual leadership, strategic guidance, and oversight of the Institute’s research priorities and long-term direction.
The Institute actively collaborates with universities, research centers, policy organizations, development partners, and civil society institutions in Pakistan and internationally. Through joint research initiatives, policy dialogues, conferences, scholar exchanges, and knowledge-sharing partnerships, IPS fosters the exchange of ideas and promotes collaborative solutions to contemporary challenges.
By combining strong advisory governance with strategic partnerships, IPS strengthens its contribution to evidence-based policymaking, intellectual discourse, leadership development, and institutional capacity-building at both national and global levels.
For over forty-six years, IPS has contributed to policy debates, informed public discourse, supported decision-makers, and nurtured generations of researchers and thought leaders.
Through its research, dialogue, publications, and outreach initiatives, the Institute has strengthened the culture of independent policy analysis and evidence-informed policymaking in Pakistan.
Today, IPS continues to serve as a trusted source of insight, analysis, and strategic thinking, bridging knowledge and action to address the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly changing world and contributing to a more informed, resilient, and prosperous society.