How can we organize for the world of tomorrow? Covid-19 has taught us that we are not ready. We have re-discovered our common vulnerability – not only to a virus, but also to policy mismatch, institutional hiccups and authoritarian backlash. Divided we stood, unable to act in concert, lacking real opportunities for deliberation. How can we improve the structures of living together and face the challenges ahead to build a more just and sustainable world? The HDCA Conference 2021 puts this question center stage.

Institutions, social arrangements, or the structures which emerge from our social living, have been conceived in different ways in the variety of disciplines that engage with the capability approach. The conference will provide an opportunity to let these various understandings speak to and learn from each other.

A hybrid conference format is currently envisaged: If you can and want to, you’ll be able to attend the conference in-person in Antwerp. If you cannot or prefer not to travel – for health reasons, but perhaps also for ecological ones – you can join online. The organizers also envisage scenarios for a completely online conference in case the health security situation would not allow for a “live” conference.

Key dates:

15 February 2021 – Closing date for submission of proposals

15 April 2021 – Announcement of acceptance/rejection

30 April 2021 – Deadline for scholarship applications

1 May 2021 – Opening of conference registration and final decision on conference format

15 June 2021 – Deadline for conference registration at early-bird rates

15 July 2021 – Deadline for paper submission for Kuklys prize

15 August 2021 – Final deadline for conference registration at standard rates

15 August 2021 – Submission of full papers/posters/presentations

Find out more and view the call for proposals here.