Hertie School mourns the loss of Wolfgang Sporrer

The internationally distinguished scholar of law and international relations was an adjunct faculty member and contributed to our Executive Education programmes.

Berlin, 13 February 2025. It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Wolfgang Sporrer, a distinguished member of the adjunct faculty at the Hertie School in Berlin. He passed away on 10 February in Vienna. His career was marked by significant contributions to international diplomacy, conflict resolution, and the promotion of dialogue in some of the world’s most challenging regions. At this difficult time, we would like to express our condolences to his family, friends, and companions.

As an internationally distinguished scholar in the field of law and international relations Mr Sporrer’s extensive professional experience included various positions, especially at the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). He led the Human Dimension Department of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission in Kyiv where he was instrumental in managing civilian aspects of conflict and facilitating dialogue between opposing sides. 

His career also encompassed roles such as Head of the Europa House of the European Commission in Baku, Azerbaijan, and Head of the Democratisation Department of the OSCE Presence in Albania. He served as a political adviser in the EU delegation in Moscow and held various positions with the OSCE in Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Kosovo. He also headed the representation of the international oil and gas company OMV in the Caspian region, spearheading efforts to promote the Southern Gas Corridor for the European Union.

At the Hertie School we were proud and honoured to host Wolfgang Sporrer as both adjunct member of our faculty and a dedicated lecturer for many of our executive education programmes teaching among other courses on “Negotiation and Mediation”, “International Conflict Management” as well as moderating a highly sensitive project namely the “Economic Connectivity – Armenia Azerbaijan Dialogue Series”.
 
“It is with deep sorrow that we students learn of Wolfgang’s passing. I feel great gratitude to have been taught by such a thoughtful and inspiring instructor. His engagement, unique presence, and passion in sharing his experiences with us will be missed deeply on campus. I’d like to extend my heartfelt condolences to his friends and family during this difficult time,” Georgia Langton, 2nd-year student (Master of International Affairs) at the Hertie School. 

Mr Sporrer’s academic background was equally impressive, with studies in law at the University of Vienna, the Université Catholique de Louvain La Neuve, and the London School of Economics and Political Science. 

Beyond his professional endeavours, he was known for his deep commitment to fostering understanding and cooperation across cultural and political divides. His insights and expertise have left an indelible mark on the field of international relations.

The Hertie School mourns the loss of Wolfgang Sporrer. His legacy will continue to inspire those dedicated to the pursuit of peace and diplomacy.