photographed by Michaela Nespěchalová

Interview with assistant professor Kateřina Fridrichová, Department of International Relations and European Politics

December 2023, interviewed by Abhinav Banerjee and Michaela Nespěchalová

You may know Kateřina Fridrichová from the courses: Global Politics: Current Issues, Humanitarian Intervention or Introduction to IR and EP. She is a program study adviser for the Master's program International Relations and European Studies. She shared experience from her academic life and gave tips either to current or prospective students.

1. How did your academic journey lead you to specialize in teaching international relations?

I embarked on a double degree in International Relations and the Russian language during my Bachelor's due to my interest in languages and politics. The decision for my Master's hovered between Russian studies and international relations. Despite the practicality of Russian studies, I found international relations more captivating and pursued it further, eventually opting for a PhD to stay within my community. Teaching emerged as a more fulfilling endeavour compared to research.

 2. Within the broad scope of international relations, how did you find your path to specialize in humanitarian intervention?

My teaching covers a broad spectrum within international relations. However, my specific field of interest revolves around humanitarian intervention, inspired by my dissertation topic proposed by Professor Kříž. His guidance was instrumental in directing me towards this specialization.

 3. Can you describe your notable research experiences and projects in international relations?

Engaged in a long-term project analyzing conflict causes and prediction, involving travel experiences, notably to Israel, to explore various conflict drivers. Published articles and reports resulting from applied research conducted for the Czech Ministry of Interior, particularly focusing on conflict prediction modelling.

 4. What advice do you have for students pursuing international relations studies?

I encourage students to explore the interdisciplinary nature of international relations, emphasizing its breadth and relevance in understanding global processes. Many successful alumni have pursued advanced studies or established careers worldwide due to the comprehensive perspective gained in the field.

 5. Could you share any upcoming international engagements or your current research focus?

Presently, I am finalizing pending research projects and articles and have an Erasmus visit planned for Malta. While I'm not engaged in many international speaking engagements at the moment, my current research focuses on the diverse interpretations and utilization of the "responsibility to protect" norm among the P5 members of the Security Council, highlighting their strategic cultural differences in its implementation.