It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Prof. em. Dr. Dieter Bender, member of IEE’s board of directors from 1982 to 2016, who passed away on 16 May 2026 at the age of 83.
After completing his studies and after receiving the PhD in economics, following research stays at the University of California and his Habilitation at the University of Mainz, Dieter Bender was appointed as a professor and chair holder at the Universities of Cologne and Essen (1976). In 1981, he accepted the call of the Faculty of Management and Economics of RUB on the Chair of International Economic Relations, a position he held until his retirement in 2008.
From 1982 onwards, Professor Bender was also a member and repeatedly chair of the Executive Board of the IEE, where he remained active in research, supervising doctoral students and teaching even after his retirement in 2008. Between 1995 and 2007, he served on the Scientific Advisory Board of the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development. He was an integral and committed part of major long-term initiatives of the institute, including the DFG-funded RTG 136 (1995-2005), the DAAD-supported cooperation with the University of the Western Cape, South Africa (2002-2023), and the multi-donor supported project on the Rehabilitation of Afghan Economics Faculties (2002-2021), which all had lasting effects on IEE’s work.
Professor Bender’s research interests focussed on international trade, international monetary macroeconomics, growth and development, and on the growth potential of structural change and economic reforms. He was an equally productive researcher and committed colleague as he was an esteemed supervisor and lecturer. Beyond his academic achievements, however, Dieter Bender was above all a kind and gracious person whom we will always remember.
We extend our deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to Dieter Bender’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.
On behalf of IEE’s board, staff and students
Wilhelm Löwenstein
