The Friedensgutachten is a joint annual peace and security assessment produced by four German research institutes: BICC, IFSH, INEF and PRIF. First published in 1987, it brings together scholars from different disciplines to examine international conflicts from a peace-strategy perspective and provide clear recommendations for policymakers. The 2026 edition, titled “The New Warlords: Containing Dynamics of Violence,” explores changing patterns of war, security and international politics.

Its themes include states using force as a policy tool, negotiated “deals” in transitions from conflict to peace, the growing role of Gulf states, the effects of emerging technologies on warfare, and pressures on international cooperation, including through the United Nations and development cooperation. It also addresses rising racist attitudes in Germany and considers ways to promote peace. Alongside publishing the report, the institutes support public engagement through presentations, discussions and events for policymakers, journalists, researchers and the wider public.

These activities introduce the report’s findings and recommendations and encourage debate on conflict prevention, peacebuilding and responsible security policy