How does peace succeed? Maximilian Lakitsch drives research forward

In great demand across the EU: Maximilian Lakitsch is driving forward peace research in the Union. In UNIZEIT, he advocates a return to diplomacy. Photo: University of Graz/Schaffernak

Donald Trump is rattling his proverbial sabre ever louder, unrest in the Middle East is escalating and the war in Ukraine continues to rage. Maximilian Lakitsch knows what political measures could contribute to reconciliation. He is the coordinator of an EU-wide initiative to strengthen peace research.

In view of the war in Ukraine and the threat of possible further expansion plans by Russia, Europe is arming itself for the first time in decades. Voices that speak out against increasing militarisation are described as unworldly and naive. Maximilian Lakitsch considers this trend to be dangerous. In the current issue of UNIZEIT, he argues in favour of a return to diplomacy.

Trump's attack on Venezuela and his threats against Greenland make it clear once again that previous political strategies are no longer sufficient for peaceful coexistence. Research is needed as a basis for sustainable new solutions. The Austrian Federal Minister for Women, Science and Research Eva-Maria Holzleitner initiated a kick-off meeting with political and scientific representatives from 16 EU member states in December. In the coming months, they will develop concrete project proposals. Holzleitner appointed Lakitsch as coordinator of this process.

Dagmar Eklaude

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