Thinking Peace !

Lin Xiang Xiong 

Exhibition from 22 October to 7 November

With an exceptional conference at the Institut de France. 

At a time when the international landscape is marked by the return of armed conflicts, growing geopolitical tensions, and profound shifts in the global order, an exceptional morning of reflection entitled “Thinking Peace” will bring together leading figures from the intellectual, geopolitical, economic, and artistic spheres at the Institut de France on Thursday, 22 October 2026.Moderated by Alin Avila and Jean Brousse, the discussions will explore three major themes.

Broken Dialogues, Impeded Diplomacies with Yves Marek and Michel Wieviorka

Contemporary crises reveal the fragility of communication mechanisms between states, institutions, and societies. When mistrust takes hold, channels of exchange close, and competing narratives prevail, prospects for resolution recede. What role can diplomacy, listening, and mediation still play in rebuilding the conditions for dialogue and opening pathways toward peace?

Economy and Ecology: Foundations for Peace? with Jean-Hervé Lorenzi and Erik Orsenna 

Economic crises, growing inequalities, and environmental disruption have become major drivers of tension and instability. How can development, resource preservation, and social cohesion be reconciled? At a time when climate and economic challenges transcend national borders, the search formore sustainable models appears to be an essential condition for lasting peace.

Art in the Face of a Fractured World with CYB, Olivia Bourrat and Hans d’Orville

What role can artistic creation play in a world marked by conflict, division, and international tensions? Can art provide a space for encounter, reflection, or transmission where political discourse sometimes struggles to persuade?
This discussion will explore the place of culture in understanding contemporary crises.