Hidden Europe: The Challenge to Diaconia and Christian Social Practice
4th Biennial Conference for Research in Diaconia and Christian Social Practice
Prague, Czech Republic, 27th – 29th September 2010
Hosted by the Protestant Theological Faculty, Charles University
Introduction
The rapid developments and disruptive changes in Europe present new challenges to Diaconia. This conference focuses on research and development in relation to the ‘hidden’ aspects of these developments. These are especially challenging for diaconal work which focuses attention on the marginalised and excluded groups. The specific aspects of ‘hiddenness’ which the conference will explore include:
- The nations and regions of Europe which are on the margins of discussions about the future of the European space, especially countries of the former Soviet Union, the Balkan region and much of the Eastern Europe.
- Those people who are living in European countries but who do not have legal status or identity themselves as migrants and/or refugees.
- Those people and communities who are excluded because of disability or on other grounds of identity.
The recent economic and political changes in the European context have created new issues which Diaconia has to address. Also, the frameworks within which services can be provided have become more limiting due to political decisions. The conference will therefore explore how the impact of market based thinking is influencing the direction of Diaconia. For example, how does this shape or limit the ability of faith based organisations to fulfill their mandate to care for the least?
These developments raise issues about the identity of Diaconia as an expression both of compassion and the struggle for justice. It is clear that some of the core concepts which have informed Diaconia and Christian social practice are being modified. Some of these are such as the limits that are put on services for those without proper legal documentation who may be in great need. Concepts of human rights and legal citizenship frameworks are in tension.
In addition to these concrete issues and structural questions, the conference will explore new research into the structures and practices of Diaconia as well as into the methodologies which are effective in the new contexts.
The Call for Papers
The organisers call for papers for the conference which relate to the broad themes already outlined. The conference will be organised into a number of thematic ‘channels’ and participants may choose from these according to their interests. Proposed channels are:
- Changing concepts of citizenship and Diaconal responses – issues of compassion & justice
- Hidden Europe as a challenge to the theology of Diaconia
- Impact of market concepts, competition and outsourcing on Diaconal structures and methods as well as on understandings of the person and human dignity
- Developing Christian social practice in Eastern Europe and the Balkan region
- International Diaconia, including south – north and east – south relationships
- Community, conviviality and Christian social practice – methods for a diverse European space
- New critical understandings of Diaconia emerging from critical Biblical and historical study
NOTE: Papers on other themes may also be submitted and the organisers will consider if they can be included in an ‘open space’ workshop.
Short Papers
There will also be a space for the presentation of short papers (max 10 minutes) on a wide range of topics from young researchers or from those just starting a research project.
Application Process for Presenters of Papers & Short papers
Papers: Those wishing to present a paper should send the proposal (max 1 page) by February 29th 2012 to Prof Jindrich Halama. Email: (halama@etf.cuni.cz) indicating which channel they would like to present. The full paper should be submitted by 15st July 2011. At the conference there will be 30 minutes for each presentation.
Short Papers: A proposal should be submitted to Prof Jindrich Halama by 29th February 2012
Acceptance: The authors of the accepted papers and short papers will be informed by March 31st 2012.
Practical Matters: Registration & Fee
Further details and application forms will be sent out as soon as they become available. If you want to be sure of receiving the information, please contact Prof. Jindrich Halama, Protestant Theological Faculty , Prague, Czech Republic. Email: halama@etf.cuni.cz
The conference fee is 135€ including meals, tea and coffee. Delegates should book their own accommodation for bed and breakfast at the conference hotel. Details of this and other reasonable priced accommodation will be sent nearer the time. There may be a possibility of financial support, especially for those from Eastern Europe and the Balkans, but this is very limited. If you need support please mention this in your application form.
Further Information: Please contact Prof Jindrich Halama. A web page will soon be available at www.etf.cuni.cz
Please note: The keynote speakers will be announced by the end of 2011
