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Steffen Mau
The Cluster of Excellence "The Politics of Inequality" at the University of Konstanz presents the In_equality Research Award 2026 to sociologist Steffen Mau in recognition of his exceptional research achievements and their social relevance. 
Hertie School announces a symposium in memory of Claus Offe, titled "Social Science for a Better World," on March 27-28, 2026.
The Hertie School will host a symposium in honor of sociologist and political scientist Claus Offe, highlighting his contributions to democracy, social justice, and social change. Among the participants is Steffen Mau, who will discuss the relevance of Offe’s ideas with international guests.
The image promotes an event titled "Future of Democracy #11," featuring Lukas Bärfuss in conversation with Steffen Mau discussing democracy and borders. A blurred person is visible on the right.

The Future of Democracy

In conversation with Lukas Bärfuss, Steffen Mau discusses borders as a defining feature of modern societies and their impact on participation and inequality. Together, they explore the challenges this poses for the future of democracy.
Inaugural meeting of the Department of Political Institutions and Conflict at Harnack-Haus, Berlin, April 8–10, 2026.

Inaugural Meeting

The Department of Political Institutions & Conflict will hold its inaugural meeting from 8–10 April 2026, bringing together scholars to discuss research on political violence, democratization, & inequality. Participants will discuss the challenges shaping political institutions & conflict across societies.
Wall graffiti reads "Save Diversity" with orange accents and a green plant sketch beneath the text.
Steven Vertovec has launched Futures of Difference, an initiative exploring the processes, discourses, and possible trajectories of key social categories worldwide through essays, podcasts, and short films by leading scholars. New content is published weekly on Substack, YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.
Multiple oil platforms with burning flares stand against a city skyline at sunset, with barrels visible in the foreground.

Workshop on Political Economy of Conflict

A workshop on the political economy of conflict, organized by Ursula Daxecker, will take place on 22 April at the University of Amsterdam, bringing together scholars to discuss current research on conflict, governance, and economic dynamics.
Covers of two books discussing Germany's division: "Nerovně sjednoceni" in Czech and "Ungleich vereint" in German, showing maps highlighting regional disparities.

Book presentation 

On Thursday, 23 April, in an evening event at the Palais Lobkowicz in Prague, Steffen Mau will present his book “Ungleich vereint”, that was recently published in Czech as Nerovně sjednoceni: Proč zůstává východ Německa jiný. The event includes a lecture and discussion on social inequalities in post-socialist societies.
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