Willy Brandt | Peace Policy in our Time | Panel discussion and ceremonial act

What can we learn from Willy Brandt's policies to help us cope with the challenges in global and European politics today? How can social democracy boost the European peace mission in an increasingly complex world? What questions must an all-embracing peace policy seek answers for in the future and for future generations?

From the United Nations Agenda 2030 to the guidelines of German foreign and peace policy: Willy Brandt's guiding principles for a more peaceful world have left their mark on German and international politics. His strong commitment to international peace still shapes the core of social democratic foreign, peace and development policy today.

50 years ago, on 10 December 1971, the German Federal Chancellor Willy Brandt was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in Oslo for his committed work for détente and peace in Europe. The Nobel Committee paid tribute to the German Chancellor and former Foreign Minister for his then domestically controversial “Ostpolitik” which was based on the principles of non-violence and recognition of the status quo of the Eastern and Western blocs.

Willy Brandt acted in accordance with his profoundly pacifist beliefs which were not restricted to the pursuit of national and European interests. Half a century ago, he was already actively campaigning to balance the economic disparities between the North and South and for a comprehensive peace policy.