'Has that Peace Studies problem been dealt with yet?'
Join us for the first in our 6 Decades lecture series.
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In 1984, former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher reportedly questioned whether the UK’s first School of Peace Studies was a serious academic institution or a potentially destabilising campaign group calling for the abolition of nuclear weapons, asking: “Has that Peace Studies problem been dealt with yet?”.
Steeped in history and founded with support from figures including Harold Wilson, JB Priestley and the Quakers, Bradford’s Peace Studies department has gone on to help shape global thinking on conflict and security. Over the past five decades it has contributed expertise to the UK Government, United Nations Peacekeeping and NATO, and engaged directly with peacebuilding efforts in conflicts including Israel-Palestine, the Balkans and Iraq.
At a time of renewed geopolitical tensions, protracted wars, climate-related insecurity and deepening global divisions, the work of Peace Studies is more vital now than ever. Join us for this special panel discussion, hosted by Professor Paul Rogers, as we reflect on Bradford’s pioneering legacy and explore the continuing relevance of Peace Studies in an increasingly turbulent world.
The speakers
Professor Paul Rogers
Professor Paul Rogers is an Emeritus Professor of Peace Studies at the University of Bradford and an internationally recognised expert on the changing drivers of conflict. He has lectured for nearly forty years at senior UK defence colleges, written or edited 30 books and over 150 publications on global security, and is a regular media commentator on international affairs.
Professor Fiona Macaulay
Professor Fiona Macaulay campaigned on human rights issues in Nicaragua, working for a student-based social justice organization, Third World First (now People and Planet). Her extensive work led her into to a deeper interest in the criminal justice system, as well as human rights, in particular prison conditions.
From 2000-2005 she had a joint appointment at the Institute of Latin American Studies, University of London, lecturing on gender and development in Latin America, and at the Centre for Brazilian Studies, University of Oxford, as researcher and coordinator of the the human rights programme there. She joined the University of Bradford Peace Studies department in 2005.
Professor PB Anand
Professor Prathivadi Anand is a Professor in Public Policy and Sustainability.
A specialist in environmental economics and public policy with a focus on the interface of urban economy, environment and sustainability, he is the chair of the Annual Conference of the Human Development and Capability Association in Bradford.
Professor Anand has held various leadership positions including as the Head of the Department of Peace Studies and International Development.
The 6 Decades lecture series
As part of our 60th Anniversary celebrations, the 6 Decades lecture series brings together leading experts to share insights into the pioneering research and distinctive strengths that have shaped the institution over the past six decades.
Across six engaging talks delivered in a hybrid format, audiences will hear directly from specialists at the forefront of their fields, exploring how ideas, discoveries and collaborations have evolved to address real-world challenges locally and globally.
The series offers an opportunity to celebrate the University’s rich legacy, connect with new and existing audiences, and take pride in the transformative impact of research that is started in Bradford.