Regime Change with Military Means? Political Debate with Ulrich Menzel in Braunschweig

Regime Change with Military Means? An Evening about War, Law, and Responsibility

When is a military intervention against an authoritarian regime justified – and where does the break with state sovereignty begin? On Tuesday, November 10, 2026, Prof. emeritus Dr. Ulrich Menzel invites you to a political science lecture with subsequent discussion in the Franziskussaal of the Theological Center Braunschweig.

Between Human Rights Protection and State Sovereignty

The event addresses a highly relevant debate in international politics. The focus is on whether the protection of a massively oppressed population can justify an external intervention. Different positions of international law and peace politics come together: the principle of state sovereignty and the Responsibility to Protect developed within the framework of the United Nations.

Historical Examples in Political Comparison

Ulrich Menzel contextualizes the discussion using historical cases. He contrasts successful interventions such as the U.S. entry into World War II with examples that were associated with significant political and humanitarian consequences, including Somalia, Afghanistan, and Iraq. The comparative analysis provides orientation for a controversial examination of military regime change.

Lecture and Open Public Discussion

In the first part, the audience can expect a professional introduction to the key terms, arguments, and historical contexts. Afterward, the evening opens up for a controversial debate with the attendees. The atmosphere is enriched by direct exchange, different perspectives, and a shared search for viable answers.

Political Science Expertise from Braunschweig

Prof. emeritus Dr. Ulrich Menzel held the chair for International Relations and Comparative Government at the Technical University of Braunschweig from 1993 to 2015. His research focuses on the theory and history of the international system, international political economy, as well as peace and conflict research. His extensive academic experience shapes the evening's content.

The event experience combines in-depth analysis with lively debate. In the focused atmosphere of the Franziskussaal, interested individuals from Braunschweig and the region have the opportunity to view a complex topic of international politics from multiple perspectives.

Conclusion

The lecture offers an informed entry into the question of whether military means can legitimize a regime change or create new conflicts. Those who want to better understand international relations, peace ethics, and current political controversies will experience an evening at the Theological Center Braunschweig filled with clear arguments and open exchange.

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Sources:

• Theological Center Braunschweig – Event Program
• Prof. Dr. Ulrich Menzel – Biography
• Peace Center Braunschweig – Dates