The International Institute for Peace (IIP), in cooperation with Diplomats Without Borders and the Global Relations Forum warmly invites you to join us for the public panel event:
Diplomacy in the Age of Conflict: Challenges, Shifts, and Future Directions
Date: Thursday, 9 April, 2026
Time: 18:00 CET
Venue: IIP, Möllwaldplatz 5/7, 1040 Vienna
PANELISTS
• KEES RADE, Founder and Chair of Diplomats Without Borders, former Dutch Ambassador in Nicaragua, Brazil and Thailand, Cambodja and Laos; headed the multilateral and sstainability departments at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Arctic Ambassador
• SELIM YENEL, Global Relations Forum; Former Turkish Ambassador to Vienna and to the EU; Former Undersecretary at the Turkish Ministry of EU Affairs
• MARTA RUEDAS, Global Relations Forum, Former UN Assistant Secretary General, heading the development and humanitarian efforts in Iraq, Sudan and Lebanon as some of her last assignments.
MODERATOR
• HANNES SWOBODA, President of the International Institute for Peace and Former Member of the European Parliament
CONTENT
IIn a world where military interventions are increasingly shrouded in euphemisms—‘excursions’ and ‘special operations’—the credibility of the rules-based order is under severe challenge. This event explores the rapidly evolving nature of diplomacy during times of conflict, focusing on recent cases such as the Iran war and the war in Ukraine. Panelists will examine how superpowers manipulate official narratives; the shift from professional diplomats committed to the principles and practices that have evolved over the centuries on the basis of what works to reliance on more personal representatives without diplomatic backgrounds—exemplified by leaders like Donald Trump; and the ways these approaches impact international relations and trust between nations. Against this backdrop, we will confront the urgent question: How does diplomacy respond to today’s challenges to be able to avoid confrontation and escalation before it is too late? The discussion will question whether traditional diplomatic channels and institutions can still demonstrate their relevance and effectiveness in achieving sustainable and durable outcomes to disputes; of if deal making backed by coercion and threats will become the new norm; and with what consequences?
Our speakers—both former and current diplomats—will share and compare their experiences serving across the globe, representing national governments as well as international organizations. Together, they will reflect on how diplomatic practice has changed over time: How was it conducted in the past, and how is it carried out today? What valuable lessons can we draw from previous successes and failures?
The discussion will also delve into the risks and consequences of acts of humiliation in international relations, particularly in sensitive conflict zones, and the positive impact of respectful behavior, even towards bitter opponents. Speakers will critically assess the effectiveness of the traditional multilateral system and weigh it against the emerging trend of minilateral alliances, considering how these different frameworks impact the management and resolution of conflicts. With Europe’s nuanced position between the US and China as a backdrop, participants will reflect on the difficult task of upholding core values while pursuing diplomacy that is both pragmatic and principled.
The event will be held in English.
Snacks and drinks will be offered after the event!
Please note that the elevator will be out of service during the event. Access to the event space is via the stairs.
By participating in this event, you agree that any photos or recordings taken that include footage of your person may be published or used in any other way by the organizers of the event.