In a time of rising authoritarianism, political polarisation and global crises, empathy and resistance are often seen as opposing forces — but they are in fact essential partners in creating meaningful change. Drawing on Kristina Lunz’s work as a feminist foreign policy advocate and human rights defender, as well as her personal experiences from working with peacebuilders to political negotiations, her new book explores how empathy can bridge divides and resistance can safeguard justice.

In this conversation, she will be joined by Dr Scilla Elworthy — three-time Nobel Peace Prize nominee and founder of the Oxford Research Group — to discuss how these principles underpin peacebuilding, strengthen democracies and inspire action, from grassroots movements to global diplomacy.

The event will combine short readings from the book with a rich dialogue on hope, resilience and the practical steps we can take to confront the challenges of our time. This will be followed by a discussion moderated by Professor Corneliu Bjola (University of Oxford).