The Institute for Prospective Studies (IP – "Instituto de Prospetiva") was established in 1991 as a non-profit private association, with the mission of promoting free thinking and debate around fundamental issues for the future of Portuguese society and Europe. The creation and development of the Institute was a process led by José Mariano Gago (1948-2015) within the scope of his unique civic, scientific and political action and driven by a group of relevant personalities from various social, political and cultural backgrounds.

The Institute has been responsible, since 1992, for the annual, never-interrupted organization of a Prospective Meeting that promotes reflection and dialogue around structuring themes for Portuguese society.