Western media often describe the relationship between Russia and China as a close friendship between two ‘autocracies’ against the ‘Western community of values’. Xi and Putin speak of a ‘comprehensive strategic partnership’ that aims to establish a ‘multipolar world order’. But who should be the poles in a post-American world order? Is there a threat of a new ‘Cold War’ with global bloc formation? How stable is the alliance between Moscow and Beijing really?

At a time of growing geopolitical tensions, protectionism is experiencing a global renaissance. Numerous countries are threatening each other with punitive tariffs and trade restrictions. Aggressive economic policies are putting increasing pressure on global trade relations. In these geopolitical areas of tension, questions of sustainability and global justice are falling by the wayside.

The intensifying techno-geopolitical competition between China and the US has exposed Europe’s vulnerability to digital dependencies.

“Do not praise my merits from the past, but use my experience for the future.” This phrase concludes the memoirs of the second German Chancellor Ludwig Erhard, recorded by speechwriter Johnny Klein and edited by our Academic Board member Ulrich Schlie. Ludwig Erhard was granted this wish during a panel discussion on the consequences of Donald Trump’s second presidency for Europe and the world.

The Academy has already organized various events and a Fellow research project on Afghanistan’s past, present and future. On the 23rd anniversary of the first Bonn Afghanistan Conference, a discussion with former Afghan President Hamid Karzai, former Afghan Foreign Minister Dr. Rangin Dadfar Spanta and Dr. Katja Mielke (Senior Researcher, Bonn International Center for Conflict Studies, BICC), moderated by AIA Director Dr. Mayssoun Zein Al Din, took place at a historically authentic location on the Petersberg in Bonn.