On 16 October 2026, the event was opened by the ambassador of the Philippines, H.E. Maria Teresa Torres Almojuela. Moderated by Dr. Pascal Abb (PRIF), the panelists Dr. Jay Batongbacal (University of the Philippines), Dr. Thilo Marauhn (University of Giessen) and Dr. Moritz Brake (University of Bonn) examined how international law, diplomacy and mechanisms for peaceful dispute settlement can contribute to stability, restraint and constructive engagement.
At a time of heightened geopolitical tensions and growing pressures in the maritime domain, the peaceful management of disputes has taken on renewed importance. Competing claims, strategic rivalry, resource interests and differing interpretations of international law increasingly test the ability of states to manage disagreements without escalation.
Drawing on contemporary maritime disputes and international adjudication and arbitration—including the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award—the discussion explored the role and limitations of legal processes in clarifying rights and obligations, reducing uncertainty, creating space for diplomacy, and providing alternatives to coercion or confrontation.
The panel situated these issues within the broader challenge of upholding a rules-based international order and reaffirmed the enduring relevance of international law in navigating today’s geopolitical tensions.
