Eckart Conze

Germany’s current foreign policy is rooted in historical traditions. For centuries, the center of Europe was a place of conflict over peace and supremacy. War and violence were – and are – part of this history. As important as it is to have a Bundeswehr capable of defending itself, foreign policy and diplomacy must not take a back seat if we want to do justice to the peace commandment of the Basic Law. In his look at 500 years of history, Eckart Conze links the pursuit of peace with the violence of war and poses questions about German interests and Germany’s role in Europe and the world.

Prof. Dr. Eckart Conze is one of Germany’s most distinguished contemporary historians. He has been a visiting professor in Cambridge and Toronto, among other places. His areas of specialization include the history of the Federal Republic of Germany and historical security research.