Japan’s integration into the Janus-faced international society has long been shaped by processes of state socialization, where norms, rules, and expectations influence its diplomatic conduct. From the 19th century onwards, how has Japan navigated pressures to conform to the international society? What lessons can be drawn from Japan’s experience for broader discussions on international political reconciliation?

The Horn of Africa not only remains one of the most crucial bottlenecks for international trade but has been subject to fierce and relentless civil conflict. The European Union has, along with the UN and NATO, aimed to create humanitarian relief and facilitate piece in the region. Yet, resource competition in Ethiopia or humanitarian crises in Somalia and the Sudan still dominate the political realities at the Horn.

In this talk, *Professor Stefanie Middendorf* will scrutinize experiences of crisis and disorder in historical and comparative perspectives. The talk will reveal how states perceived ‘states of emergency’ which were both made visible or hidden by different political systems throughout the 20th century. It will also question whether this approach helps us to better understand liminalities of democratic and dictatorial rule.

There is growing awareness of the importance of addressing the interwoven crises of climate change, inequality and biodiversity loss. Education, as always, is seen as a critical component in addressing these challenges. The Green Templeton Lecture series 2025 will explore the topic of sustainability education with speakers reflecting, in dialogue, on three critical and central issues.

In this talk anthropologist Munira Khayyat revisits the South Lebanon borderland, where she has conducted longterm fieldwork in the wake of its almost total destruction after the latest season of war there. This talk reflects on ecologies of resistance and survival through storms of war and the steadfastness of life after the end of the world.