demise of the inaugural head of INEF, Franz Nuscheler
Obituary: Professor Franz Nuscheler, Pioneer in Development Studies and International Politics, Passes Away
Professor Franz Nuscheler (1938–2025), a renowned political scientist, historian, and development researcher, passed away on July 31, 2025, at the age of 87. His contributions to the field of development policy and international politics were profound and far-reaching, shaping discourse and policy in development and peacebuilding for several decades.
Nuscheler began his academic journey in 1967, earning his doctorate from the University of Heidelberg. Following his studies in political science, history, and public law, he moved to the University of Hamburg, where he continued his research. In 1974, he was appointed as a professor for Comparative and International Politics at the Gerhard-Mercator-University Duisburg, a position he held until his retirement in 2003[1].
At the University of Duisburg-Essen, Nuscheler made a significant impact. In 1990, he founded the Institute for Development and Peace (INEF) at the faculty of social sciences, which became a central research institution supporting the work of the Willy Brandt Foundation "Development and Peace." As its founding director, he led INEF until 2006, fostering interdisciplinary research on global development and peace issues and enhancing the university’s reputation in these fields[1].
Nuscheler's contributions to development research are evident in his influential standard works, such as the Handbuch der Dritten Welt (Handbook of the Third World) and the Lern- und Arbeitsbuch Entwicklungspolitik (Learning and Workbook for Development Policy). These publications are recognized for combining scientific depth with political relevance, focusing on interlinking development, peace, and global cooperation[1].
Beyond academia, Nuscheler served on numerous scientific advisory boards, including the German Bundestag’s Enquête Commission on "Globalization of the World Economy" and the German government's Scientific Advisory Board on Global Environmental Changes (WBGU). In 2001, he was awarded the Order of Merit of North Rhine-Westphalia for his service[1].
Professor Emeritus Dr. Nuscheler dedicated his life to research and teaching at the University of Duisburg-Essen. His work significantly shaped development research and policy in Germany, and the Institute for Development and Peace (INEF) and the entire university will cherish his memory.
[1] Source: University of Duisburg-Essen's official obituary for Professor Franz Nuscheler.
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