Call for Abstracts

Much of the information we receive about borders, borderlands, border-crossing and migration reaches us through different media sources and political messages that are often tendentious in nature. We are frequently presented with highly simplified narratives about national security, sovereignty and identity that warn of the catastrophic consequences of a loss of control over borders. Such a potential “loss” is more often than not exaggerated if not imaginary, however as a narrative it remains highly influential. One reason for this is that such “clear” messages resonate with everyday anxieties and senses of insecurity that are exacerbated by geopolitical conflict and economic uncertainty. Border studies and migration scholars have invested considerable time, energy and ethical commitments in the production of a complex understanding of borders and human and non-human lives and things crossing them. A question remains, however, if grounded knowledge can prevail in a “post-truth” political climate.

Following the established BoMoCult conference format, we welcome contributions that relate to Borders, Mobilities and Cultural Encounters in the broadest sense. At the same time, we especially welcome interventions that engage with the increasing narrativisation of people, places and situation related to the multiplicity of borders and border-crossing, national, linguistic, legal, bodily and so on, as well as the consequences of such narratives. What different types of media and social media narratives are emerging and what do they tell us about the political and social significance of borders? Can activist and civil society inspired narrations counter media narratives and possible disinformation regarding supposed border crises? Can we in fact promote counter-narratives based on more circumspect and informed knowledge?  What methodological means can be used to understand how the narratives are constructed and analyzed? These are all difficult questions that confront us with “wicked” socio-cultural problems and with this conference we hope to stimulate productive debate and discussion that opens pathways for future research.

Abstracts for individual papers (max. 150 words and a short bionote) or panels including 3-4 presentations should be sent by email to the organizers by 31 August 2025.

Email: [email protected]

The conference will be an on-site event at the University of Eastern Finland, Joensuu campus.

More information about BOMOCULT Research Community.