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Public Lecture: Critical Reflection on the Role of Europe in Peace Processes

Public Lecture and Discussion | 20 May 2025 | 18:00–19:00 CET | Hybrid Event

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As part of the Europe Month 2025 celebrations and the activities of the EUPeace Alliance, the Center for Conflict Studies is hosting a lecture and discussion on "Critical Reflection about the Role of Europe in Peace Processes".

Peacebuilding has become central to the European Union's identity as a foreign policy actor. The concept has been integrated into various EU policy areas, including security and defence, development cooperation, enlargement, and the European Neighbourhood Policy. Nevertheless, the prevailing approaches to peacebuilding have increasingly been subject to criticism due to their limited success in fostering sustainable peace in numerous contexts.

We are honoured to welcome Dr Thania Paffenholz  as speaker. Drawing on her extensive experience advising international organisations, governments, NGOs, conflict parties and civil society actors, Dr Paffenholz will offer a critical reflection on Europe's role in peace processes. A renowned expert on inclusive peace processes, Dr Paffenholz has worked with institutions such as the United Nations, the World Bank, and the European Union itself.

The event will be moderated by Professor Dr Thorsten Bonacker (Center for Conflict Studies). It especially invites students — including those from the EUPeace network — to engage in a critical reflection on Europe's role in peacebuilding and to participate actively in the discussion.

The event will take place in hybrid format and is open to all interested participants. We warmly invite students, scholars, and practitioners to join.