The Foundation for Post-Conflict Development celebrated its 20th anniversary in Leipzig, Germany, during a moving ceremony attended by His Serene Highness Prince Albert II…
The event coincided with the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Leipzig, one of the final cities in Eastern Germany to be freed at the end of the Second World War. It was in this emotionally charged setting that Muriel Bubbio, President of the Foundation for Post-Conflict Development in Monaco, reflected on the organisation’s mission, history, and enduring relevance.
The foundation, created by Claudia Abate in response to the wartime experiences of her father, one of the American soldiers who liberated Leipzig, has spent two decades working to promote peace and support communities affected by conflict. Its objectives align closely with those of the United Nations: facilitating reconciliation, strengthening civil society, and empowering local actors in post-conflict zones.
The commemorative event not only honoured past sacrifices but also drew attention to ongoing conflicts in Ukraine, the Middle East, Sudan, and elsewhere. In her remarks, Bubbio emphasised that peace requires ongoing dialogue, balance, and the commitment of many actors; governments, NGOs, and individuals alike. Forgetting history, she warned, risks repeating it.
Monaco plays a vital role in supporting the foundation’s activities, through partnerships with local organisations such as the Monaco Red Cross and the philanthropic support of the Stelios Foundation. As conflict continues to scar regions around the globe, the foundation’s work stands as a reminder that peace is a process—one rooted in remembrance, collaboration, and hope for a better future.
