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Lecture Series: “Boundaries and Transgressions of Military Violence”

The use of military force always operates in the tension between what is possible and what is permissible or acceptable. Topics such as nuclear arsenals, the control of unmanned drones, cyberattacks, humanitarian interventions, the “War on Terror,” and the torture of prisoners illustrate the multifaceted nature of modern warfare. In light of current security developments—particularly Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and the escalating conflict in the Middle East following Hamas’s attack on Israel—the question of the limits of military force has gained renewed urgency. These events highlight how quickly military means can be deployed, the legal and ethical dilemmas that arise, and the nature of international responses. Under the direction of Dr. Henning de Vries, Managing Director of the International Research and Documentation Centre for War Crimes (ICWC), we explore the central question: Where lies the boundary between military necessity and ethical and legal constraints—and when is that boundary crossed?

The lecture series “Limits and Transgressions of Military Force” aims to foster an interdisciplinary discussion on the ongoing transformation of the legally defined boundaries of military force. In doing so, it examines how military capabilities are shaped and constrained not only by strategic and tactical considerations but also by international humanitarian law and international criminal law.

We invite you to explore with us the multifaceted and complex interconnections that shape today’s military practices, their legal frameworks, and global security policy.

The lecture series takes place every two weeks on Tuesdays from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. c.t. in Seminar Building B |07, Room +1/0010, at Pilgrimstein 12.

For those unable to attend in person, the lecture series is also made available as a podcast afterwards. This way, you have the opportunity to listen to the exciting lectures and discussions at any time.

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