CFP: Post-Conflict in the Balkans: Where Are We 20 Years after Dayton? Ulcinj, Montenegro, April 2-3, 2015 (Deadline 2/6/15)

Peace and Justice Studies and the Summit Knowledge and Action Network at Utah Valley University, The Institute for Scientific Research and Development, and the Municipality of Ulcinj, Montenegro, present:

      An International Conference in Ulcinj, Montenegro

The countries that constitute the Balkans have a long history of conflict based in ideologies of nationalism, ethnic suspicion, and lack of communication and cooperation.  These countries face serious social, political, and economic problems, but perhaps the most common need among them— and a way to join efforts across cleavages— is toward European integration.  Some of the countries have made significant progress int his respect, while others are in the early stages.  A challenging question is how borders within the Balkans might change as a corollary of integration, and what nationalist movements may push for or against such change.  The conference will interrogate and analyze the Balkan reality, its challenges and possibilities.  Moreover, the conference intends to be an event of peacebuilding toward stabilization, social, political, and economic progress and brining the Balkans closer to European integration.

The conference will take an inventory of, and work toward, progress regarding the state of conflict transformation, peacebuilding, transitional justice, and reconciliation in the Balkans.  After the Bosnian War and the signing of the Dayton Accords (14 December 1995), work began to build peace and stability int he region.  Where are we 20 years later?  The conference will interrogate what has been done successfully and unsuccessfully.  What have we learned?  What must we still learn?  How should we move forward?  The conference will also give space for scholars and others to present ideas and strategies for further peacebuilding work.

General Schedule:

Taking an inventory, making an interrogation of the state of conflict transformation, peacebuilding, transitional justice, and reconciliation programs, strategies, institutions, and commitments.

What can be learned from Northern Ireland about these matters in the Balkans?  Proposals and discussions of strategies for moving forward.  Discussion on the development of the Conflict and Peace Research Center in the Balkans.

Related themes:

— Democratization

— Nationalization as a risk for the integration into the EU

— The role and fate of CEFTA

— Necessary measures to protect local economies

— Legislation and shared governance in the SEE countries

— Legislation and shared governance in regard to environmental problems

–Sustainable economic development, e.g., in tourism

— The harmonization of fiscal policies and attracting investment

— The role of the International Framework of Qualifications

— The development and collaboration of universities

Proposals that fit the themes to be discussed are welcome, and do not have to address the Balkans alone.  Indeed theoretical presentations that are seen to apply to the issues above are welcome.  Send an abstract, not to exceed 500 words, to:

Dr. Michael Minch

Deadline for submission is 6 February 2015.

The conference will be held in the Ulcinj Commune.

Registration cost:  €100.  The includes one night’s lodging two lunches, and one dinner.

Conference languages: English, Albanian, Montenegrin (translation will be available).

Flights into Mother Teresa International Airport, Tirana, Albania; or Podgorica International, Montenegro (transportation from and to the airports will be available for €50).

Selected papers will be published.