Thank you for a year of seminars at the CCDP!
A few words on the Centre on Conflict, Development, and Peacebuilding (CCDP) for those less familiar: we’re the Graduate Institute’s focal point for research on conflict analysis, mediation and peacebuilding, as well as the complex relationships between security and development, working to bridge research and practice. Our seminars, held each semester, highlight recent work on topics like peace, justice, and governance. Some are open to all, others more targeted – but all welcome lively discussion. Master’s students are especially encouraged to join, and you’re very welcome to reach out if you’d like to know more!
Looking back at my notes – a few scribbled pages and a lot of loose sheets – what stands out most is the diversity of what we heard this year: different regions, disciplines, and research paths. I was struck by the commitment of our speakers, and the way many brought their personal journeys into their academic work. One seminar resonates in particular, reminding me how research often relies on chance encounters and unexpected turns. And when personal narratives weave into analytical reflection, the result is often rare and powerful – intellectually rigorous and deeply human at the same time.
I also remember moments when I felt a bit out of my depth – unfamiliar topics, unfamiliar regions. But those were the most enriching ones. I learned about places I hadn’t studied before and issues I hadn’t considered, through concrete, field-based insights. These talks expanded my perspective and helped make sense of the readings I began when I first joined the CCDP.
I feel very lucky to have had this time to reflect and learn – on peace, justice, and the environment – alongside generous colleagues and inspiring guests. I hope the seminars continue to be spaces where ideas are tested, shared, and built together.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who took part in the seminars I’ve had the pleasure of organising so far at the CCDP: Shalaka Thakur, Julia Palik, Pedro Maia, Jana Krause, Nicolas Sion, Jérôme Drevon, Abdulla Ibrahim, Ludmila Stuparu, Timothy D. Sisk, Sara Hellmüller, Margaux Pinaud, Toon Dirkx, William Andrés Mesa, Elena Butti, Emilian Berutti. I’m looking forward to being back next spring, after taking some time off following the birth of our second daughter.
