IRIS was established in 1991 as a result of a private initiative. Despite a strongly compartmentalized domestic environment, IRIS has progressively established itself as a leading actor in international and strategic studies among various French think tanks.

IRIS was created with three fundamental objectives in mind:
> to contribute to the research and debate on international and strategic matters by offering an original and innovative approach on national and international issues;
> to create a truly independent center of expertise;
> to create a space for dialogue and reflection between the strategic actors and specialists from different professional and philosophical backgrounds : politicians, government officials, industry and military leaders, experts and academics.

IRIS focuses primarily on issues relating to foreign policy, strategic policy, security and defense. As an independent and non-partisan center of expertise, IRIS's team of specialists, extensive networks, and high-quality analysis make the institution both a strong corporate partner for international business development and a reliable contact for public institutions. Through numerous exchanges with foreign research centers and with the political, economic and diplomatic circles, IRIS has developed a network of specialists around the world, permitting the institution to broaden and improve its range of activities as well as its audience, helping it to become a true "think tank".