Over 100 scholars from around the world gathered at the Maxwell School recently to share research and dissect timely issues related to citizenship during the Central Eurasian Studies Society (CESS) Fall 2024 Conference. The event was organized by the Central Asia and the Caucasus Initiative (CACI) in the Maxwell-based Moynihan Institute of Global Affairs. The event was among several held by the Maxwell School in the lead up to its 100th anniversary in October 2024. 

“We were delighted to host a truly global group of scholars and experts for the CESS fall conference as we continue to celebrate the Maxwell School’s centennial,” said Natalie Koch, professor of geography and the environment and director of CACI. “The conversations at this conference, and the ongoing research of the attendees, are vital to understanding this complex and rapidly changing part of the world.”

The theme of the conference, “Citizenship Unbound: Central Eurasia in a Changing World,” focused discussions on the past and present challenges of citizenship in Central Eurasia. Sessions covered an array of subjects from regional economics and green investment to cultural identity and women’s rights. Presenters and panelists represented a spectrum of relevant disciplines, with many scholars making the trip to Maxwell from Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan, among many other locations. Additional cultural events enriched the conference experience for attendees, including an exhibition of cultural artifacts from the region and a movie night featuring a contemporary Uzbek film.

Alumna Bhavna Davé ’96 Ph.D. (PSc), a senior lecturer at the University of London, delivered the conference’s keynote address, “Eurasia Unbound? Reflections on Empire, Geopolitics and Citizenship.” Koch facilitated a discussion following the remarks. 

The Central Eurasian Studies Society is a North America-based organization of scholars interested in the study of Central Eurasia, including its history, languages, cultures, people and modern states. As an organization promoting an interdisciplinary approach to studying and understanding the region, Maxwell was well suited to host the conference.

The gathering was co-sponsored by the Middle Eastern Studies Program, the departments of Political Science and Geography and the Environment, as well as Syracuse University Libraries and Hendricks Chapel. 

By Cort Ruddy