Organised by the Cluster In/Equalities in the Context of Social Transformation Processes of the Field of Excellence Dimensions of Europe, University of Graz

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.

Conference Theme:

This interdisciplinary conference seeks to bring together diverse historical and contemporary perspectives from a range of academic disciplines, providing a platform for scholars, researchers, and practitioners to engage in insightful discussions on addressing exclusion, discrimination and socio-political inequalities.

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
• Intersectional dimensions of inequality
• (Im)mobilities, migration, and inequalities
• Social movements and political activism in contesting inequalities
• (Collective) feelings of (in)equality and (in)justice and their respective political and/or societal consequences
• The role of educational environments and language in reinforcing stereotypes and exclusion or function as a tool for inclusion
• Inequalities in later life, 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, health- and social care
• Inequalities in the access to public resources and infrastructures
• Inequalities in the labor market, poverty, and discrimination in employment opportunities
• Ecological dimensions of inequalities and injustices
• Cultural Representations of (in)equalities, ex/inclusion and discrimination in cinema, literature, art, etc.