In 2025, the world documented the highest number of conflicts since World War II, an uptick in both interstate wars and intra-state conflicts over the last decade. What is driving the increase in organized violence and are we seeing a commensurate rise in conflict prevention and management efforts by the United States and the international community? 

The Dickey Center welcomes leading experts in international conflict management and peacebuilding to address these questions.

Former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Anne Witkowsky has spent more than 30 years working on conflict issues, from security in Europe to counter-terrorism to strengthening stability in fragile states. She has held senior roles at the National Security Council, Department of Defense, the State Department, and think tanks. She is a senior advisor at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, DC. 

Professor Elizabeth McClintock '86, Ph.D., has worked on peacebuilding efforts worldwide and advised policymakers at the World Bank, United Nations and multiple governments, as well as the community members most impacted by war and its resolution. She is the Executive Director at the Bridgeway Group, teaches at Harvard Law School and at the Fletcher School at Tufts University. She is in residence at Dartmouth as the Magro Family Distinguished Fellow in International Affairs at the Dickey Center.

This panel will explore the current trends, address the thorny questions facing those trying to prevent international conflicts, and the factors that contribute to successful efforts for peace. Ms. Witkowsky and Prof. McClintock will bring different perspectives to the conversation, helping to elucidate the challenges at the national level, as well as those facing peacebuilding efforts from the ground up.

The conversation will be moderated by Dickey Center Director Victoria K. Holt.