The Peace Research Institute Oslo (PRIO) is pleased to announce the appointment of Nina Græger as its next Director, effective 1 July 2025. Græger brings a wealth of experience in international relations and security studies to PRIO, underscoring the Institute’s commitment to excellence in peace research.
Leading PRIO into a New Era
“It is a profound honour to take the helm at PRIO, a leading research institute that has been at the forefront of peace and conflict research for over six decades,” said Nina Græger. “The world is facing an unprecedented array of challenges, and rigorous research and international collaboration hold the power to guide us toward more peaceful societies. I look forward to working with PRIO’s internationally recognized and dedicated researchers to advance our shared goals.”
A highly respected scholar of political science, Nina Græger has extensive academic and leadership experience. Græger is professor of international relations and currently heads the Department of Political Science at the University of Copenhagen. It is one of Europe’s leading departments within the discipline, especially within International Relations. She brings over a decade of management expertise, including over five years as a senior leader, and a distinguished research career focused on international relations, security policy and global systems analysis. Earlier in her career she worked as a researcher with PRIO and the Norwegian Institute of International Affairs (NUPI).
Continued Commitment to Peace Research
“Nina Græger’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for PRIO,” said Trine Skei Grande, Chair of the PRIO Board. “Her dynamic leadership and extensive research background will be instrumental in guiding the Institute as it strives to address the challenges of global peace and conflict. These qualities make her the ideal choice to lead PRIO into the future.”
Nina Græger steps into the directorship at a critical juncture in Norwegian and global affairs. With escalating geopolitical tensions, democracies backsliding, climate crises and social inequalities fueling conflicts worldwide, PRIO’s mission to promote peace through rigorous interdisciplinary research is more essential than ever. Græger’s extensive experience in research and her commitment to global justice make her uniquely equipped to steer PRIO in this demanding environment.
Nina Græger succeeds Henrik Urdal, who has served as PRIO’s Director since 2017 and is coming to the end of his tenure. Under Urdal’s leadership, PRIO has expanded its global influence, published groundbreaking research and strengthened its position as an international leader in peace and conflict studies.
Established in 1959, PRIO is a world-leading peace research organization dedicated to conducting research that deepens our understanding of the drivers of conflict and pathways to peace. Under Nina Græger’s leadership, the Institute aims to further its mission of fostering solid, innovative research that hopes to influence global peacebuilding efforts.
More information
- To arrange an interview with PRIO's incoming Director, Nina Græger, or the Chair of PRIO’s Board, Trine Skei Grande, contact Communication Director, Michelle Delaney, on +47 941 65 579 or at michelle@prio.org.
- A full biography of Nina Græger is available here.
- A selection of high-resolution profile photos of Nina Græger are available to download here.
- More information about PRIO's current Director, Henrik Urdal, is available here.
