The University of Osnabrück mourns the passing of
Professor Emeritus Dr. Martin Bennhold
December 24, 1934 – August 11, 2025
Since the founding of our university in 1974, Professor Martin Bennhold served as Professor of Sociology of Law in what was then the Department of Social Sciences until his retirement in 2000. His research critically addressed issues of central importance to his time. He led two research projects on forced labor in Osnabrück and in the district of Grafschaft Bentheim, focusing in particular on the relationships between forced laborers from the former Soviet Union and the local population of Osnabrück.
He was a co-founder of the association established in 2000 to support the Gestapo Cellar Memorial at Osnabrück Castle and served as its long-standing chair. In doing so, he helped create a space for information, remembrance, and commemoration.
Professor Martin Bennhold inspired many students through his strong democratic and emancipatory convictions. His great optimism, as well as his seriousness in matters of principle and his warmth in personal encounters, were deeply appreciated.
Our deepest sympathy goes to his wife and his family.
The President
Prof. Dr. Susanne Menzel-Riedl
| The Dean of the Faculty of Cultural and Social Sciences Prof. Dr. Hajo Holst | The Director of the Institute of Social Sciences Prof. Dr. Katrin Golsch |
