Arms Control and Global Order Research Unit
Understanding power, technology and resources in a multipolar world.
ACGO analyzes how technological innovation and critical resources reshape international order and the prospects for arms control and global governance.
ACGO is an interdisciplinary research group that examines the political and material foundations of international order. Drawing on multiple disciplinary perspectives, we study how technological innovation and the geopolitical significance of critical resources shape power relations, security dynamics, and the prospects for international regulation.
The aim is to explain systematically under which conditions states in an increasingly multipolar world pursue cooperation, regulation, or strategic competition—and what this implies for the design of stable international order and institutions.
ACGO is part of international research networks and collaborates with universities and research institutes worldwide.
With a strong practice-oriented approach, it also maintains close exchange with government officials, international organizations, and members of parliament. This engagement helps translate analytical insights into policy-relevant knowledge to inform political decision-making.
News
1. Interdisciplinary Young Expert Workshop
ACGO will host an interdisciplinary workshop at Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg on 20–21 March 2026, bringing together early-career researchers from political science, law, computer science, and related disciplines. The workshop explores how emerging military technologies are reshaping international security and arms control, with a focus on developing interdisciplinary research perspectives and new collaborations.
More information and agenda:
Agenda_ACGO_workshop_March2026.pdf
(298.8 KB) vom 05.03.2026
2. ACGO at the UN negotiations on autonomous weapons in Geneva
A team from the ACGO Research Group is attending the first session of the 2026 CCW Group of Governmental Experts (GGE) on Lethal Autonomous Weapon Systems in Geneva. The visit focuses on observing the ongoing negotiations on the Rolling Text and potential outcomes ahead of the mandate’s conclusion in 2026. In addition, ACGO is conducting a closed questionnaire with delegations to systematically capture and analyse national positions.
3. ACGO guest-editing POLITIKUM special issue on arms control and armament dynamics
The ACGO Research Unit is guest-editing a special issue of the journal POLITIKUM on Arms Control, Armament Dynamics and the Defence Industry. The issue brings together academic and policy perspectives and is scheduled for publication in May 2026.