UN ambassador visits: insight into Munich's peace research!

UN ambassador visits: insight into Munich's peace research!

On May 15, 2025, the University of the Bundeswehr Munich (UniBw M) welcomed an illustrious delegation of eleven UN ambassadors from various regions such as Africa, Asia and South America. The visit took place as part of a program accompanied by the German Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Antje Leendertse. On this day, the diplomats received insights into the university's current research and degree programs that focus on international issues and peacekeeping.

The opening speech was given by Professor Isabelle Deflers, Vice President for Internationalization and Diversity at UniBw M. She highlighted the importance of international cooperation and university research for global peacekeeping, which is in line with the goals of the United Nations. The ambassadors also had the opportunity to interact with students and faculty members and explore the university's potential for international politics.

Research on international challenges

A highlight of the program was the tour of the campus, which was led by Martin Welz, Professor of Comparative Political Culture Research. During this, the ambassadors became acquainted with the young cultural studies course, which deals specifically with the North African region. This academic orientation plays an increasingly important role in the global political landscape, which is characterized by the challenges of a dynamic international environment.

The ambassadors also visited the laboratory of another professor, Peter Stütz, who is known for his innovative work in the field of aeronautical engineering. Research work was presented there as part of the European GENIUS project, which deals with the development of sensor optics for drones. This technology has the potential to more efficiently detect landmines and unexploded ordnance, which is crucial to the security situation in many conflict regions.

Final discussion on peacekeeping

The visit ended with a final discussion about Germany's role in international peacekeeping. This topic is also within the framework of the principles developed by the United Nations of central importance. The United Nations Charter emphasizes the need for collective action to prevent wars and violence. Collective security, as enshrined in the Charter, requires states to put national interests aside for the sake of world peace.

The UN Security Council has a primary responsibility for maintaining world peace. In the past, however, the measures were often hampered by geopolitical tensions, such as the East-West conflict. Nevertheless, the UN is trying to actively intervene in areas of conflict and bring about peace through observation missions and peacekeepers, the so-called blue helmets. This form of peacekeeping has evolved to meet the complex challenges of global security and remains a central component of the international order.

Overall, the UN ambassador's visit to the Bundeswehr University in Munich was a significant step in promoting dialogue on global security issues and the role of higher education in international politics. UniBw M is thus an important partner for the UN and other international organizations that deal with issues of peacekeeping and international cooperation.