Understanding Atlas: how a right-wing network is building global influence

By Sam Williams Founded in 1981, Atlas is a global network of right-wing ‘think tanks’ that organise and build power so they can shape the systems and structures we live in, to advance their own interests. According to its website, Atlas links 550 think tanks in more than 100 countries, including ten in New Zealand and Australia. Its political alignment is spelt out in its vision “of a free, prosperous, and peaceful world where the principles of individual liberty, property rights, limited government, and free markets are secured by the rule of law”.