FES maintains offices in 33 countries of Western Europe, Central and South-East Europe, the CIS-countries, and also the USA and Japan. In these countries it fosters the dialogue between democratic forces with the aim of bringing about a balance of interests, resolving conflicts and drawing up policy options. It ccoperates in this process with partners from various social groups and organisations, such as trade unions, political parties, educational and research institutions, public administrations, and also city and local governments.