Ukraine Foundation
Inspiring Change, Driving Impact
Filip Haugland is a Swedish international security and EU affairs professional based in Brussels, with more than 15 years of experience in European foreign, security and defence policy, of which seven years working on Security Sector Reform (SSR) in Ukraine. He brings deep expertise in European security frameworks and strategic policy analysis and advice, and vast experience of engaging with senior-level decision-makers, at the intersection of EU affairs, European security and defence integration, and transatlantic relations.
Mr Haugland is currently an independent consultant specialising in EU security and defence policy and Ukraine. In this capacity, he is working closely with the defence industry and has analysed shifts in European defence cooperation, including how long‑standing policy doctrines have evolved in response to Russia’s full‑scale invasion of Ukraine. Previously, Mr Haugland was a Policy Officer at the European External Action Service (EEAS), where he provided strategic direction for the EU´s civilian crisis management mission in Ukraine. As a Head of Office in the European Parliament, he was the Chief Political Adviser on all issues pertaining to the EU´s foreign, security and defence policy agenda. As an Acting Head of Unit/Desk Officer at the Swedish Armed Forces HQ, Mr Haugland managed the Armed Forces´ EU engagement and its SSR programmes in Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine, across the Western Balkans and in the Horn of Africa, respectively. Prior to that, he was a Senior Political Risk Analyst and a Foreign and EU Affairs Adviser in the Swedish Parliament.
Mr Haugland´s research and policy interests span European and transatlantic security and defence integration, EU-NATO cooperation, civilian and military SSR across the EU´s Eastern Neighbourhood, and policies and strategies aimed at strengthening Europe´s deterrence and resilience in the face of current and future Russian aggression.
Mr Haugland holds a Master of Arts with Distinction in Conflict Resolution (University of Bradford, UK) and a Bachelor of Science in Political Science (University of Gothenburg, Sweden). In the course of his studies, he interned at the International Organisation for Migration´s (IOM) Angola office and with a Swedish disarmament NGO, and conducted a field study in Sudan.
He speaks Swedish, Norwegian, English, and Spanish, as well as some French, Greek, Italian, and Portuguese.
FAQs
What is the focus of Ukraine Foundation’s work?
Ukraine Foundation is an independent, mission-driven research and impact organization dedicated to advancing peace, resilience, and innovation in Ukraine. Our work combines rigorous policy research with practical initiatives that strengthen Ukraine’s international partnerships, support innovation and technology, and promote cultural resilience amid the ongoing war.
How does the Foundation turn research into impact?
We believe research should lead to real-world change. Our policy programs —Ukraine in Europe, China in Ukraine, and Ukraine in the Global South— produce insights that shape international dialogue and policy. At the same time, our impact initiatives foster cooperation between governments, businesses, academia, and civil society, ensuring that ideas translate into action for Ukraine’s security, prosperity, and influence.
How can individuals and organizations engage with the Foundation?
Engagement is central to our mission. Partners, experts, and supporters can collaborate through joint research projects, public events, and strategic initiatives in innovation and culture. We also welcome contributions to our programs that amplify Ukraine’s voice globally and strengthen its resilience at home.
How can I support Ukraine Foundation?
You can support our mission by contributing financially, partnering on research or impact projects, or amplifying our work through your professional networks. Every contribution -whether funding, expertise, or visibility- helps us strengthen Ukraine’s resilience and global partnerships.
Does Ukraine Foundation accept volunteers or research fellows?
Yes. We welcome dedicated professionals, researchers, and students who want to contribute to our policy and impact agenda. Opportunities range from short-term projects and fellowships to longer-term engagement with our programs and initiatives.
How can organizations collaborate with the Foundation?
We actively partner with think tanks, universities, governments, businesses, and NGOs to co-develop research, host events, and implement projects that drive meaningful change. Organizations interested in collaboration can reach out to us directly to explore tailored partnerships.