In an era marked by profound social, political, and economic transformations, inequalities - whether based on race, gender, class, ethnicity, age, or other dimensions - remain pervasive challenges globally. While the complex mechanisms of inclusion and exclusion are constantly at play, we are also witnessing the development of alternative strategies and practices that challenge these inequalities.
The conference “Facing Inequalities – Strategies for Change” focuses on the intersections of multiple inequalities and questions how mechanisms of exclusion and inclusion are (re)produced, negotiated, and challenged through alternative imaginations and practices. It aims to foster a deeper understanding of these complexities and explore strategies to promote equality, inclusivity, and justice.
We invite contributions that address (but are not limited to) the following themes:
Legal mechanisms and frameworks on societal cohesion, empowerment and inclusion/exclusion in national and transnational contexts
Gendered dimensions of inequality in historical and contemporary contexts
(Im)mobilities, migration, and inequalities
Social movements and political activism in contesting inequalities
Collective feelings of inequality and (in)justice
The role of educational environments and language in reinforcing stereotypes and exclusion or function as a tool for inclusion
Inequalities in later lives, ageism, and intergenerational dynamics in transforming societies
Translating inequalities: cultural, linguistic, and institutional mediation
The impact of technological developments on inequalities, notably in terms of exacerbation or mitigation
Psychological and neuroscientific approaches to the origins of exclusionary mechanisms and the necessary support for victims of discrimination
Alternative perspectives for diversity and inclusion of minorities and marginalized communities in public spaces
Inequalities in the labor market, poverty, and discrimination in employment opportunities
Ecological dimensions of inequalities and injustices
Submission Guidelines
We welcome abstracts from scholars at all career stages working in disciplines such as sociology, law, political science, economics, history, anthropology, cultural studies, gender studies, human rights, and beyond. Contributions with interdisciplinary and comparative approaches are particularly encouraged.
We also invite practitioners, activists and NGOs to bring their expertise into conversation with academic discussions, aiming to develop alternative imaginaries and solutions to multiple inequalities and injustices.
We invite proposals for both individual contributions that address the conference theme and panels with 3–4 speakers and a discussant. We also welcome book panels with the participation of the author(s) and discussants.
Please submit a 300-word abstract along with a short biographical note (max. 150 words) to europe(at)uni-graz.at by April 30, 2025.
We plan to publish a selection of contributions in a special issue of an international peer-reviewed journal or an edited volume following the conference
Important Dates
| Abstract Submission Deadline | April 30, 2025 |
| Notification of Acceptance | June 30, 2025 |
| Paper Submission Deadline | September 30, 2025 |
| Conference Dates | November 6-7, 2025 |
Funding
We offer financial support to a limited number of participants. Independent scholars and early career researchers will receive priority. Please indicate your interest in financial support when submitting your application.
Many roads lead to Austria’s second biggest city – and there are almost as many ways to get there.
The Conference will take place at SZ 15.21 (University of Graz, ReSoWi, Universitätsstraße 15, building A, 2nd floor).
Book your stay in Graz now!
| Zentrum für Südosteuropastudien |
| Zentrum für Südosteuropastudien |