Michael von der Schulenburg’s career in international diplomacy and peacebuilding spans more than 40 years, focusing on political stability, human rights, and sustainable development in various conflict zones around the world. His service with the United Nations (UN) and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) has involved significant roles in international peace efforts.

Born in 1948, von der Schulenburg grew up in post-war Germany, which shaped his interest in conflict prevention and peacebuilding. He studied development economics and earned a master’s degree that laid the foundation for his career in global diplomacy. His international work began in 1974 with the UN Development Program (UNDP), where he focused on the relationship between economic development and peace, aiming to improve living conditions in fragile states.

Throughout his career, von der Schulenburg has held leadership roles in over 30 countries, including regions in Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. He has been involved in countries such as Afghanistan, Iraq, Haiti, and Sierra Leone, where his diplomatic skills were applied to navigate complex political landscapes.

One of his significant contributions was as the Executive Representative of the UN Secretary-General in Sierra Leone, where he led efforts to consolidate peace following the country’s civil war. His work contributed to the transition of Sierra Leone from a fragile post-conflict state to a more stable and democratic nation.

In Afghanistan, von der Schulenburg served as the Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General, overseeing nation-building efforts during a challenging period. He directed the international community’s engagement toward promoting national reconciliation and rebuilding essential institutions in collaboration with Afghan leaders.

Throughout his career, von der Schulenburg has focused on conflict prevention, sustainable peace, and the protection of human rights. His experience includes democratization and institution-building efforts. During his time with the OSCE, he contributed to the organization’s efforts to prevent conflicts in Europe, particularly during political tensions in Eastern Europe.

Von der Schulenburg is also an author of numerous articles and reports that critique military interventions and advocate for diplomacy, peacebuilding, and development as strategies for resolving conflicts. His writings emphasize that sustainable peace can be achieved through inclusive dialogue, local engagement, and prioritizing human development.

In recent years, von der Schulenburg has focused on reforming international peace operations, advocating for a shift from reactive crisis management to a preventive approach that addresses the root causes of conflicts. His insights contribute to discussions about reforming global governance to meet 21st-century challenges, including environmental degradation, economic inequality, and political instability.

In addition to his roles with the UN and OSCE, von der Schulenburg has been a speaker, consultant, and academic lecturer, engaging with universities and think tanks worldwide. He continues to share his knowledge with the next generation of diplomats and peacebuilders, promoting adaptive and resilient approaches to international diplomacy.

Today, Michael von der Schulenburg remains active in peace advocacy, consulting with international organizations and contributing to academic discourse on global peace efforts. His work addresses pressing issues in the international community, emphasizing the importance of diplomacy and understanding in a world often driven by conflict.