International Conference

Identity Issues and Heritage Practices in the Balkans

The Center for Advanced Studies, Institute of Education, Heritage and Tourism, Albanian Institute of Islamic Civilization, in cooperation with International Institute of Islamic Thought and Center for Cross-Cultural Understanding “Horizonti” are pleased to announce a call for papers for the upcoming conference “Identity Issues and Heritage Practices in the Balkans”.

This conference brings together academics, researchers, and practitioners to explore the complex interplay between identity dynamics and heritage practices in the Balkans. The Balkans region has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, shaped by the influences of various civilizations throughout history. This heritage is, however, often contested and politicized, leading to complex identity issues that continue to shape the region’s social, political, and economic landscape.

The conference explores the various dimensions of identity and heritage in the Balkans, including but not limited to:

  • The ever-evolving relationship between heritage practices and identities;
  • Heritage conservation and management;
  • The relationship between identity and conflict.
  • The impact of globalization and migration on the relationship between heritage practices and identity dynamics
  • The role of cultural diplomacy in promoting inclusive and sustainable public policies
  • The impact of tourism on heritage and identity
  • The role of media and technology in shaping and representing heritage practices and identity dynamics
  • The interaction of urbanization and development with heritage and identity issues
  • Education and conceptualizations of heritage and identity
  • The relationship between political and economic systems and the preservation or destruction of heritage
  • The role of civil society in heritage preservation and identity formation.

Submissions from a variety of disciplines, including anthropology, sociology, religious studies, history, cultural studies and heritage studies are welcome. Scholars and researchers based in the Balkans are particularly encouraged to apply.

  • The conference language will be English.
  • The conference will be held in person in Ulcinj, Montenegro, October 14-15, 2023.
  • The deadline for abstract submissions is July 25, 2023.
  • Selected participants will be notified by July 31, 2023.
  • Submission of full paper is by October 1, 2023.
  • Abstracts should be no more than 300 words, and should include the title, name(s) of author(s), and contact information.

Please send your abstract to [email protected], with the subject line “Identity and Heritage in the Balkans Abstract Submission”.