Westminster Abbey Institute Autumn Series 2025 Announced

This programme of thought-provoking events is designed to bring together public servants, thought leaders, and the wider community to reflect and inspire ethical leadership with three special events exploring the theme of Remembering war, Rethinking the tasks of peace.

The Westminster Abbey Institute has announced its Autumn Series exploring war, peace and ethical leadership

Marking 80 years since VE Day, and set against the backdrop of ongoing global conflict, the series offers a powerful forum for public servants and anyone interested in these issues to reflect on war, peace, and the responsibilities of leading and serving in public life.

It includes a panel discussion on Tuesday 16th September,  The Search for an Ethical Peace with the former Archbishop of Canterbury, theologian and poet, Rowan Williams, former head of the British Armed Forces, Nick Carter, and British politician and diplomat, Catherine Ashton.

Chaired by international affairs journalist and broadcaster Rageh Omaar, this conversation offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the human, political, and spiritual costs of peace.

In November there’s an evening exploring poetry in wartime featuring film and theatre director Josie Rourke with live performance and conversation to reveal how poetry can resource, renew, and give voice to those who face conflict and its legacies, with live actors and speakers.

And the flagship event is One People Oration, a rare opportunity to hear directly from Filippo Grandi, UN High Commissioner for Refugees who will reflect on a decade of global displacement, leadership, and moral responsibility, as one of his final public addresses before leaving office.

Dr Edge Watchorn, Director, Westminster Abbey Institute, said:

“These events offer spaces for leaders and emerging professionals alike to take a step back from the day-to-day pressures of their roles to engage in reflection and conversation on their work in public life. In an age marred by conflict and deep divisions globally, this year’s Autumn Series invites audiences to consider what it means to lead ethically and to serve with hope.” 

The Institute’s Autumn Series is part of a wider programme of thought-provoking events running throughout the year. It aims to foster meaningful discussions on public life’s biggest questions, with inspiring speakers exploring ethics, moral leadership and societal values, set within the Abbey’s unique and historic setting. Dates in September and November.

All Westminster Abbey Institute Autumn Series events are free of charge.

To reserve tickets and for more information about each event, click here.