Conflicts, trade wars, technological revolutions, climate change, human rights violations, mass migration and the return of power politics: the world is grappling with complex challenges and rising tensions between countries and ethnic groups. And growing populism, autocracy, threats to the international order, the rise of groups such as the Islamic State or multinational tech companies as political actors on the national and global scene are only exacerbating these problems. Maintaining peace, security and justice demands robust European and international cooperation.

What new or existing forms of international policy and consultation might improve collaboration? At Leiden University, we bring together expertise from a wide range of disciplines to find answers to these pressing questions. Drawing on broad, in-depth knowledge of international law, security, European integration, and languages and cultures, our research is strengthened by interdisciplinary collaboration.

We also benefit from a rich network of international knowledge and partnerships. Much of our research and teaching on global problems takes place in the heart of The Hague, the international city of peace and justice. Its numerous NGOs, ministries, embassies, multinationals, and international conferences and organisations make The Hague a fertile ground for research input and collaboration. We actively share our knowledge with diplomats, policymakers, civil society organisations, think tanks, the media and the business community.