Best Researcher Award

Maximilian Lakitsch
University of Graz, Austria

Maximilian Lakitsch is an Austrian researcher associated with the University of Graz, where he serves as a Senior Researcher within the Institute of the Foundations of Law, Department of Global Governance. His academic work focuses on peace studies, global governance, international relations, conflict transformation, and emerging debates surrounding the Anthropocene and relational peace. Through interdisciplinary scholarship, Lakitsch has contributed to contemporary discussions concerning peacebuilding, governance, and the interaction between human and non-human actors in global political processes.[1]

Abstract

This article presents an academic overview of Maximilian Lakitsch and his contributions to peace research, international governance, and interdisciplinary scholarship. His research examines how peace practices evolve in complex social and ecological environments, with particular attention to relational approaches, conflict transformation, and governance in the Anthropocene. His scholarly record demonstrates sustained engagement with contemporary challenges affecting peacebuilding and global cooperation.[2]

Keywords

Peace Studies, Global Governance, International Relations, Anthropocene, Conflict Resolution, Relational Peace, Peacebuilding, Arts and Humanities.

Introduction

The study of peace and governance increasingly requires interdisciplinary perspectives capable of addressing social, political, environmental, and ethical complexities. Maximilian Lakitsch has developed research that engages these themes through innovative theoretical frameworks and empirical inquiry. His academic career includes appointments at both the Austrian Study Centre for Peace and Conflict Resolution and the University of Graz, reflecting a long-standing commitment to peace research and international affairs.[3]

Research Profile

Lakitsch’s research profile is characterized by a focus on global governance, legal foundations of peace, and the implications of environmental transformation for political systems. His work investigates how peace can be conceptualized beyond traditional state-centered approaches and how governance structures respond to interconnected global challenges.[4]

Research Contributions

• Development of relational approaches to peace studies.
• Research on governance challenges within the Anthropocene.
• Analysis of peacebuilding practices in conflict-affected regions.
• Interdisciplinary examination of human and non-human dimensions of governance.

Publications

• Relational Peace: Navigating Pluriversal and Non-Anthropocentric International Peace Practice (2026).
• Faking Peace Until War in Nagorno-Karabakh (2026).
• A Materialist Reconsideration of International Peace Practice and its Human and Non-Human Constituents (2024).
• Peacebuilding in the Anthropocene (2023).
• Peace Needs to Embrace the Anthropocene (2023).
• Hobbes in the Anthropocene (2021).

Research Impact

The academic impact of Lakitsch’s work is reflected through peer-reviewed publications, scholarly citations, and engagement with emerging debates in peace and conflict studies. His research contributes to discussions concerning sustainability, governance, and the future of international peace practice. These contributions support broader understanding of how global institutions and communities may respond to increasingly interconnected challenges.[5]

Award Suitability

Based on his scholarly achievements, interdisciplinary research portfolio, and contributions to peace studies and global governance, Maximilian Lakitsch demonstrates qualities associated with academic excellence and innovation. His work aligns with the objectives of the Global Innovation Technologist Awards by encouraging new perspectives on governance, conflict resolution, and sustainable futures.[6]

Conclusion

Maximilian Lakitsch has established a notable academic profile through research that bridges peace studies, governance, and environmental change. His publications contribute valuable perspectives to contemporary scholarly debates and support continued advancement within the fields of international relations and humanities research.

External Links

• ORCID Profile
• Scopus Author Profile
• ResearchGate Profile
• Award Website

References

1. Elsevier. (n.d.). Scopus author details: Maximilian Lakitsch, Author ID 57203504891. Scopus.
   https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=57203504891
2. ORCID. (n.d.). Maximilian Lakitsch Research Profile.
   https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6096-8350
3. Lakitsch, M. (2026). Relational Peace: Navigating Pluriversal and Non-Anthropocentric International Peace Practice.
   DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/01436597.2026.2666366
4. Lakitsch, M. (2026). Faking Peace Until War in Nagorno-Karabakh.
   DOI: https://doi.org/10.1163/15730352-bja10131
5. Lakitsch, M. (2023). Peace Needs to Embrace the Anthropocene.
   DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/10402659.2023.2174374
6. Lakitsch, M. (2021). Hobbes in the Anthropocene: Reconsidering the State of Nature in Its Relevance for Governing.
   DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/03043754211008677