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War is a Dead End – A "Traffic Sign of Justice" at the University of Liechtenstein

War is a Dead End – A "Traffic Sign of Justice" at the University of Liechtenstein

As part of the initiative "Traffic Signs of Justice", the University of Liechtenstein hosted a series of lectures and a standing lunch on Wednesday, 16 October 2024.

 

In collaboration with Benjamin Kuchelmair, an alumnus of the University of Liechtenstein, the sign “War is a dead end” was acquired, officially unveiled, and inaugurated. Kuchelmair explained: “Just like in road traffic, some paths inevitably lead to a dead end with no way forward. Let us seize the opportunity together to make a U-turn and decisively take the path of peace through cooperation, rather than remaining alone in a dead end.”

 

Dr. Christian Frommelt, Rector of the University, examined the topic of war from a political science perspective: “The 'Democratic Peace' – the insight that democracies do not go to war with one another – is regarded as the only empirical law in the otherwise unpredictable realm of international relations. It is therefore crucial to protect democracies and support institutions that promote democracy.”

 

The designs for the "Traffic Signs of Justice" were created by artist Johannes Volkmann together with children and youth from nine different countries. The signs were produced in large numbers to be featured in artistic projects across Europe. They are intended to highlight the values of our open and free society.

 

Initiated by Gaudenz Ambühl, the “Liechtenstein Concept” was developed to enable broad involvement of all interested initiatives and institutions throughout the country. The goal is to establish the “Traffic Signs of Justice” as permanent installations in public places such as town halls, schools, businesses, or churches across Liechtenstein, embedding them sustainably in the public consciousness. The sign “War is a dead end” will have a permanent location on the campus of the University of Liechtenstein.