Jolle Demmers

Overview

Prof. dr. Jolle Demmers is a Professor of Conflict Studies at Utrecht University's Department of History and Art History. She leads the History of International Relations section and currently serves as Head of the Department (2022–2025). Her work focuses on remote warfare, civilian harm in conflict, and the intersection of military neoliberalism with global security policies.

Education & Roles

• PhD in Conflict Studies (not explicitly stated but inferred from academic rank)
• Associate Visiting Professor at UC Berkeley
• Member of the Dutch Advisory Council on International Affairs (Peace & Security Commission, 2019–2024)
• Academic Advisory Board member of the Dutch Defence Academy since 2022

Research Interests

Her research explores remote warfare (e.g., The Intimacies of Remote Warfare project), neoliberal reforms in conflict zones, and the role of diaspora networks. She critically analyzes civilian casualties in Western coalition wars (e.g., Syria/Iraq) and advocates for transparency in military operations.

Publications & Impact

Demmers authored Theories of Violent Conflict (3rd ed. 2025), a global textbook. Her work bridges academia and practice through interdisciplinary projects with art institutions (e.g., BAK, De Balie). Recent contributions include op-eds on Ukraine and EU defense policies, emphasizing critical perspectives on militarism.

Awards & Grants

• ITN Marie Curie grants for Conflict Studies initiatives
• Funding from NWA Route Between Conflict and Cooperation
• Pax for Peace and IOS/UGLOBE grants for civilian harm research

Grants & Projects

• After the Strike: Documented Dutch airstrike impact in Hawija (Iraq)
• Transparency Road Map process with Dutch Ministry of Defense