From knowledge to action – how do we create transformation in society?

The Munich Re Foundation was established 20 years ago on the occasion of the 125th anniversary of its benefactress, Munich Re. Munich Re has been dealing with global risks since 1880. Passing on knowledge was a central motive for setting up the foundation: those who have a lot of knowledge also bear responsibility and those who act responsibly must share their knowledge and take action. 

The foundation's motto ‘From knowledge to action’ has accompanied us in our project work since the foundation was established. Especially in times of major social changes and crises, be they violent conflicts, threats to democracy or climate change, it remains as important as ever: knowledge alone is not enough! Expertise must be translated into concrete action in order to overcome social challenges and make them sustainable. 

In practice, the transition from knowledge to action is not automatic. It is often hampered by barriers such as a lack of resources, institutional resistance or individual fears. Overcoming these hurdles requires innovative approaches, interdisciplinary cooperation and strong networking between science, business, politics and society.

How much and what kind of knowledge do we need to take action? Are there other triggers or factors that initiate or favour a change in behaviour? How do we overcome barriers to social transformation and what means do we have at our disposal to accelerate it?

We would like to discuss these and other questions with our panel guests and all participants at our foundation anniversary.

Welcome and keynote speech on the occasion of the foundation's anniversary

Dr. Doris Höpke
Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Munich Re Foundation

Panel guests

Prof. Claudia Kemfert
Head of the department Energy, Transportation, Environment at the German Institute of Economic Research (DIW Berlin)

Prof. Armin Nassehi
Professor of General Sociology and Theory of Society at the Ludwig Maximilian University Munich

Philipp von der Wippel
Founder and managing director of the non-profit organisation ProjectTogether

Moderation

Renate Bleich
Chair, Munich Re Foundation

Venue: Munich Re, Room Europe, Giselastrasse 21, 80802 Munich

Date: 8 April 2025, 7:00 - 8:30 pm

After the official part of the event, we warmly invite you to stay for further discussion over drinks and snacks at the tables.