Thursday, 26 March 2026
3 pm UTC | 90 minutes
Zoom (registration required)

Across political discourse, media coverage, and policy debates, wars are increasingly described (and defined) as either “wars of choice” or “wars of necessity.” These terms seemingly are used to provide clarity, but as they are normalized, they also shape how societies understand and respond to violence and conflict.

In this session, we will step back from debating specific conflicts and instead explore a deeper question: How does the language we use to describe war shape public consent, political decision-making, and the space available for peace leadership?

Drawing from scholarship in international relations, just war theory, and peace studies, participants will examine how the concept of “necessity” has become embedded in legal, political, and cultural narratives about war—and what it means to challenge that framing.

Together we will explore:

• How the terms war of choice and war of necessity entered public discourse

• How language influences moral reasoning about war and peace

• What responsibilities peace leaders have in challenging narratives that normalize violence

This interactive session will include large-group dialogue and small-group discussions focused on the concepts and implications of this framing, rather than debates about particular wars.

Here’s what to expect:

• Engage with peace leaders and scholars from around the world

• Reflect on how language shapes political and moral possibilities

• Explore how peace leadership can challenge narratives that make war appear inevitable

Please join us for this timely and thought-provoking conversation!