Research projects
Actualization of bibliography on nonviolence and nonviolent action
Implementation: Kevin Kaisig
Peace researcher Reiner Steinweg has compiled an extensive bibliography on topics related to non-violent action, which was maintained until 2011. The IFGK has transferred this bibliography to the Zotero system and will update it in the coming years, i.e. add new publications.
The project can be viewed here.
Civilian-based / social defence today
Implementation: Dr. Christine Schweitzer with Dr. Barbara Müller
The aim of the project is to rethink and systematically develop the concept of social defence (SD) in light of current social and political challenges. The project will examine the extent to which the existing concept can be adapted to the changed conditions of current threat situations and what potential it offers for dealing with crises and conflicts.
The first product will be a book on the topic of ‘Social Defence as an Alternative Defence against International Threats’. It will be written by Christine Schweitzer.
Researching and disseminating Satyagraha („Gütekraft“)
Implementation: Dr. Martin Arnold
Gütekraft is being scientifically researched in a research project comprising several sub-projects. The main findings will then be published in a generally understandable form (e.g. through seminars, teaching materials, films, etc.). To address these issues, Martin Arnold initiated the establishment of the Gütekraft working group in 1998, which consists of scientists and committed members of the movement, see www.guetekraft.net. Together with this group, the IFGK has conducted several research days on the topic of Gütekraft. Gütekraft topics now have a permanent place in the IFGK’s study days.
The scientific project aims to clarify the effects, scope and limits of Gütekraft and thus the profile of this dynamic and concept, with the aim, among other things, of increasing the plausibility of non-violent, Gütekraft-based approaches in an appropriate manner.
Find out more about the Gütekraft research project (in German).
Other projects in the IFGK
Online magazine Nonviolent Action
„gewaltfreie aktion“ is an online news and opinion portal that reports on and comments on social movements and non-violent actions.
Inspired by the US news portal ‚Waging Nonviolence – People Powered News & Analysis‘, which has been in existence since 2009, and in the tradition of the German-language magazine “gewaltfreie aktion – Vierteljahreshefte für Frieden und Gerechtigkeit” (1969-2010), it deals with non-violent campaigns or activities aimed at eliminating injustices, constructive conflict resolution, non-violent social change and politics, and non-violence in general.
It raises awareness among the general public of the activities of numerous civil society initiatives and social movements in many countries. Particular attention is paid to movements and individuals who are working non-violently for the constructive resolution of conflicts in areas such as the environment, climate, diversity, justice and peace. The aim is to give their voices greater prominence.
“Tea and Tactics”
In the Podcast ‘Tee & Taktik’ (Tea & Tactics), Lea and Dalilah discuss current research and practical experiences relating to civil resistance.
Strategic protest is effective and absolutely necessary in our times. Lea and Dalilah demonstrate this in their discussions about research and practice in civil resistance. Dalilah has a PhD in resistance research.
Lea also researches the topic and is an author, co-founder of Letzte Generation (Last Generation) and is now setting up the new resistance project ‘Guter Grund’ (Good Reason). Together, they share scientific findings and practical experiences every last Thursday of the month in the second season, clearing up many misconceptions about the topic and encouraging listeners. It’s not just about social movements, but also about democracy, justice, and strengthening civil society. ‘Is protest completely pointless?’ – These and other critical questions that affect us all are discussed in the podcast. Profound debates about power, strategy, and effective tactics find their place, as does the question of learning from defeat. Grab a cup of tea and let’s get started!
The podcast is hosted by Dr Dalilah Shemia-Goeke and Lea Bonasera.
The podcast can be listened to anywhere where podcasts are available, for example here: