Call for Papers: Legacies of Power: Shaping University Collections and Museums
Deadline: 8th of February 2026. For more information please see Full Call for Papers 2026.pdf and Universeum_Abstract_Template – Coimbra 2.026.docx
Introduction
Academic freedom is widely regarded as a core value of universities in Europe. Yet the autonomy of institutions and staff varies greatly between countries and among institutions.
Moreover, the approach to university heritage varies considerably, reflecting the differing political, cultural and organisational experiences in the various regions of Europe. From ideological control to nationalist narratives that glorify selective histories, colonialism and systems of oppression, political systems have played a decisive role in shaping the scope of university heritage.
Subtler cultural influences have also silenced alternative voices, and generated patterns of exclusion, erasure and absence.
At this conference we will critically reflect on the institutional and regional trajectories of university heritage and collections, acknowledging plurality and examining how communities, artists and curators have challenged, subverted or reclaimed museums and collections to contest political systems, or on the contrary to support them.
As university heritage is not neutral, we will recognise how dealing with both the past and current political and cultural impacts is a complex challenge for university heritage professionals as they work to develop knowledge, collections, and educational and curatorial approaches.
This can fundamentally challenge how we understand the purposes and definitions of our institutions, thereby also playing a vital role in contemporary local and global dialogues.
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