The conference entitled “Multiculturality of Novi Sad – National Communities of Vojvodina” will be held on February 12, 2022. The conference is organized by the Regional Scientific Center of the Institute for Philosophy and Social Theory (University of Belgrade) and the Forum for Education, Cooperation, Affirmation and Support to Civil Society) with the support from the “Novi Sad – European Capital of Culture” Foundation and its “Migrations” program port.

The main purpose of the conference is to deepen the historical and cultural (self)awareness and critical reflection on Vojvodina, that is, on its ethnic communities. Having in mind its complexity, more precisely, its multi-ethnic, multi-lingual and multi-confessional character, the region of Vojvodina represents a special challenge not only for the general public but also for scientific researchers. Therefore, while respecting the values and principles of pluralism, preserving the diversity of cultural heritage and constructive dialogue, it is necessary to think of Vojvodina as a dynamic socio-cultural space as opposed to a space with simple positive/negative prejudices and folklore categories. It is desirable to take into account both the differences when it comes to experiencing ethnic identities in Vojvodina and the complex intersections of minority/majority identities and practices, i.e., the institutional mechanisms through which these practices are realized. In accordance with the complexity of the topic, the conference will be of an interdisciplinary nature and open to researchers from various scientific fields (such as history, political science, minority studies, sociology, anthropology, and philosophy). Presentations that will promote inter-ethnic dialogue are especially welcome as well as presentations that will pay special attention to Novi Sad. Presentations can be held in Serbian or English. The conference will be open to the general public.

The conference also includes a round table entitled “Glass ceiling – the specific position of women in certain minority ethnic communities” which aims to initiate and develop a discussion on the scientific contribution of women from minority ethnic communities in Vojvodina and to encourage the visibility of members of minority ethnic communities in public life.

The participants in the round table are members of three minority ethnic communities in Vojvodina: the Hungarian, the Slovak and the Romanian ethnic communities. They have developed their academic careers in various scientific fields and are employed either at the University of Novi Sad or at the University of Belgrade. During the “Glass ceiling – the specific position of women in certain minority ethnic communities” round-table, participants will discuss the following issues: