The SGAS/SSEA & VAD Conference is set to unfold at the University of Basel, bringing together scholars from Europe, Africa, and beyond for a collaborative exploration of significant themes under the conference’s overarching title, “African Perspectives on Global Transformations.” This event will connect participants across various academic career levels and aims to address urgent issues such as decolonization, epistemic justice, reparations, climate justice, and restitution, all framed within the concepts of planetary health and cosmopolitan flourishing. The conference seeks to critically engage with the historical, cultural, and political transformations shaping the African continent and its diaspora, making it a pivotal gathering for scholars interested in the intersection of African studies and global issues.
Designed to foster interdisciplinary dialogue, the conference welcomes diverse panels that explore the complexities of African identities, migration, and the socio-political landscape of the continent. Topics of interest include postcolonial and decolonial knowledge production, the dynamics of diaspora, and the evolving political culture within African states. Participants will have the opportunity to discuss Africa’s role in changing global orders, addressing issues of sovereignty, neocolonial ties, and emerging South-South relations. Furthermore, the conference will highlight critical themes such as planetary health amidst climate challenges, urbanization, biodiversity, and the impacts of digital innovations on African societies. The event aims to create a conducive environment for networking and collaboration, encouraging both academic and non-academic contributions, including artistic and activist perspectives.
In addition to featuring panels on historical and contemporary issues, the conference will also delve into the arts and cultural expressions from the African continent, examining how these forms can serve as platforms for social critique and independent narratives. With a commitment to inclusivity, the SGAS/SSEA & VAD Conference will provide a safe space for engagement, promoting respect for personal integrity and diversity among participants. The event is organized by the ZASB Research Network Africa on behalf of the Swiss Society for African Studies and the Association for African Studies in Germany, with notable contributions from various academic institutions. Participants are encouraged to attend in person to benefit from direct interactions, while also having the option for hybrid participation, ensuring a broad reach and engagement with a diverse audience.
