bicc annual report 2024

To advocate “for a more peaceful world” has never felt as urgent—and at the same time as fragile—as it does today. The devastating wars in Ukraine, Sudan, Gaza and the Sahel, global power shifts and growing social injustice in many societies show how vulnerable peace and democracy have become. In its 30 years of existence, bicc has responded to such unsettling developments, evolving from an institute focused primarily on conversion and arms control in its early years to an international centre for Conflict Studies that applies a multi- and transdisciplinary approach. Today, bicc is dedicated to research and policy advice on the conditions, dynamics and consequences of violent conflicts, militarisation, peacebuilding, forced migration and environmental conflicts in their broader political and societal context. All of this follows a common objective: to understand the drivers of violent conflict and to identify ways to prevent, reduce and transform brute violence. Our 30th anniversary provided a moment for reflection and renewed commitment. The world has not become more peaceful since bicc was founded. But our conviction remains that rigorous, independent research, critical dialogue and close cooperation with partners in politics, civil society and academia can make a difference—however small and incremental the impact may be.