CHIȘINĂU, Republic of Moldova – From June 2–6, 2025, the capital of Moldova hosted the 24th Annual Conference of the Conflict Studies Working Group (CSWG), organized under the auspices of the Partnership for Peace Consortium (PfPC). Co-hosted by the “Alexandru cel Bun” Military Academy and the Netherlands Institute of Military History, the conference brought together 35 civilian and military historians and strategic studies experts from 19 countries. Focused on the theme “Perceptions of Enemy in Peace and War: Implications for Policymakers,” the five-day gathering explored how historical views of adversaries continue to influence political decision-making in the modern era.

Insights from History, Theory, and Policy Practice

Spanning seven thematic panels and featuring 22 academic presentations, the conference examined the evolution of enmity across a range of conflicts—from the World Wars and the Cold War to the post-Yugoslav wars and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Topics addressed included the ethical treatment of enemies, the strategic role of public perception in justifying the use of force, and the rising influence of digital technology on informational warfare. Discussions incorporated theoretical perspectives from constructivism, realism, and liberalism, offering a multidisciplinary approach to the challenges of interpreting and responding to perceived threats in the international system.

A Platform for Dialogue and Policy Recommendations

Participants emphasized the practical implications of historical memory and narrative framing, culminating in a set of policy recommendations designed to help modern decision-makers navigate complex international tensions. The conference also created a unique platform for open academic dialogue across cultures and ideologies, encouraging trust-building and critical analysis. As organizers and attendees noted, the event significantly advanced the PfPC’s core mission of strengthening regional cooperation and promoting peace through education, research, and strategic insight—values that are also central to NATO’s broader goals in the Euro-Atlantic region.

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You can learn more about the Conflict Studies Working Group here.