Ukraine and the Middle East: Conflict, Peace and the Global Security Order in the 21st Century
context
Russia's renewed aggression against Ukraine on February 24, 2022, highlighted the return of large-scale military force to Europe—a scale the continent had not seen since World War II. Scholars and observers quickly recognized this war as a turning point for the Euro-Atlantic security architecture. Similarly, the war in the Middle East has created a new level of chaos and instability. These two central conflicts of the 21st century are often viewed in isolation—without sufficient consideration of how developments in one regional theater affect the other.
This conference takes an integrated approach and examines these two international security hotspots jointly. It aims to examine their interactions and intersections, analyze a shared perception of security threats, and discuss their strategic implications for a global security order. Furthermore, it will examine how the new US foreign policy under President Trump—characterized by disruption and unpredictability on the one hand, and the pursuit of rapprochement with Russia on the other—influences the chances of resolving the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.
While the Middle East is currently characterized by violent conflicts and shifting alliances, it is also the scene of recent peace initiatives such as the Abraham Accords. The conference will therefore also examine whether and to what extent diplomatic formats can act as stabilizing elements in a turbulent security environment – and what implications this has for global efforts at conflict resolution and security cooperation.
Goals
Investigation of the direct and indirect links between Russia's war against Ukraine and the conflicts in the Middle East
Creating a space for collective reflection, mutual learning and the search for common positions between German, Ukrainian and Middle Eastern participants
Discussion of post-war perspectives (sustainable peace, reconstruction, security guarantees) and development of recommendations for shaping political and social discourses
Central themes
The Elephant in the Room: Understanding US Foreign Policy toward Ukraine and the Middle East
Security guarantees in Ukraine and the Middle East: prerequisites, options and best practices
The overlooked geopolitical web: The connections between the Eastern Mediterranean and the Black Sea
Between old and new warfare: nuclear deterrence, drone technology and hybrid threats
Paths to peace and prosperity in the Middle East?
Russia's aggression against Ukraine: How can the war be ended and lasting peace secured in Europe?
A new world order after the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East?
