Bielefeld's Professor Dr. Zick receives Cross of Merit for civil commitment!

Bielefeld's Professor Dr. Zick receives Cross of Merit for civil commitment!

On October 15, 2025, Professor Dr. Andreas Zick, director of the Institute for interdisciplinary conflict and violence research (IKG) of Bielefeld University, the Cross of Merit on Ribbon of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany. The award took place in the Bielefeld town hall and was presented by Christina Osei, representative of the mayor.

This award recognizes Zick's decades of commitment to civil society and science. His research on topics such as democracy, social cohesion, conflict, violence and radicalization was particularly highlighted. At the ceremony it was emphasized that his work contributes significantly to educating people about social developments and strengthens awareness of democracy, tolerance and diversity.

Zick's involvement in science

Professor Zick has been at the head of the IKG, which was founded in 1996, since 2013. It is considered one of the leading German research institutions in conflict and violence research. Under his leadership, the institute focuses on the causes and effects of social conflicts and investigates complex phenomena of social disintegration and group-related misanthropy. The IKG is also involved in the dialogue between science and civil society.

In addition to his research work, Zick helped set up the conflict academy “ConflictA” and has been leading this institutional platform for two years. There he promotes the exchange of knowledge and the practical application of research results. His commitment also extends to supporting students and young scientists, to whom he would like to offer a safe and supportive training environment.

Zick also contributes his expertise to various advisory boards and commissions, including the German Peace Research Foundation and the Federal Agency for Civic Education. He is also a member of the Federal Government's Anti-Racism Expert Council and is often consulted as a media expert on socially relevant topics.

recognition of his achievements

Zick has already been awarded various prizes for his achievements. In 2016 he received the Communicator Prize from the Stifterverband and in 2022 he was honored with the Nevitt Sanford Lifetime Award from the International Society for Political Psychology. These awards not only underline his outstanding scientific achievements, but also his broad influence on social discourse.

The work of the IKG, under Zick's leadership, looks at conflict files from an interdisciplinary perspective. Various disciplines such as political science, social anthropology and law are included. The research covers local and transnational conflicts and also includes current topics such as migration and political radicalization.

Andreas Zick's commitment and research work make a decisive contribution to understanding the challenges and dynamics of modern social life. By combining theory and practical application in civil society, it strengthens social cohesion and promotes democratic values.