ZIF Alumni Talk on Resilience in Crisis Management

The Center for International Peace Operations (ZIF) recently hosted its first “ZIA Talk,” launching another important format for networking and exchange with its alumni network. The ZIA Talk was aimed at members of the ZIF Intern Alumni Network (ZIA), which includes former interns and student employees, many of whom continue to have a strong interest in civil crisis prevention, crisis management, and peacebuilding, and some of whom are now working in the field.

Strategic foresight in times of crisis as a key factor

The central theme of the talk was strategic foresight as the key to crisis management and increasing resilience in volatile times. ZIF Managing Director Dr. Astrid Irrgang opened the event with a keynote speech in which she provided insights into the internal future process “ZIF 2035.” Under the title “Strategic foresight in times of crisis – strengthening resilience, ensuring relevance, seizing opportunities,” she outlined ZIF's strategic direction and the importance of long-term planning in uncertain times.

Practical insights into crisis resilience and adaptability

Timo Baader and Timo Roujean then shared their own insights on the topic of resilience from their everyday work. Both are former employees/interns at the ZIF and now work in the field of foreign policy. Timo Baader, an expert in operational resilience, crisis and risk management, explained how institutions can become crisis-resistant through robust structures and processes. Timo Roujean now heads the Konrad Adenauer Foundation (KAS) country office in the Democratic Republic of Congo and explained, among other things, how crucial adaptability is in challenging environments.

Results and outlook

The talk concluded that strategic foresight and continuous adaptation to changing conditions are crucial for ensuring long-term resilience. Other important factors include the integration of expertise and field knowledge, the use of technological enablers, and strategic cooperation at all levels. The ZIA Talk was organized by Charlotte Wintz, Sophie Borchard, and Lucia Gries, with technical support from Jasmina Schroff and Tobias Kiderlen.