SAVING THE WEST? AN INVENTION AT ITS TIPPING POINT

The first few weeks of this year have shaken the West to its core. Not gradually, but in fast motion.
The West, long a promise of freedom, progress, prosperity, and the rule of law. For others, it is above all a history of upheaval: marked by violence, exclusion, and the externalization of costs.

In light of war in Europe, authoritarian counter-movements, and a liberal world order that has become fragile, the question arises anew—between hope and disillusionment, self-image and global criticism:

What remains of the West—as an idea, as an order, as an orientation?

We have compiled everything you need to know about the conference week on our website. The program for our conference is currently under construction. What you see here is a preliminary version, so it's worth checking back regularly, as new sessions, speakers, and highlights are being added all the time.

The conference week 2026 will take place from February 25 to February 27, 2026.

As one of more than 1,500 first-semester students, you began your studies in October 2025 with a project-oriented approach during Opening Week on campus. During the conference week, you will present your insights from the university's “Transformation” module – to the entire city.

Together with stakeholders from politics and society, business, and research, you will explore the power of democratic change in times of global upheaval. At the conference week 2026 from February 25 to 27. The main stage, workshop formats, and exhibitions will invite you to take a look at tomorrow.

What responsibility do you bear for the world of tomorrow?

The main participants in the conference week are around 1,500 first-semester students.  In addition, experienced students and university staff, as well as interested citizens from the city and metropolitan region, are welcome to attend the conference week.

First-semester students should register for the conference week via myStudy (see conference package).

Interested parties from the university and the region can simply register for the public events of the conference here.

If you have any questions during the conference week, please visit the information point in the foyer of the Libeskind-Building.

Please take note of our Datenschutzinformationen.