Statement from CES Chair Eamonn Butler McIntosh
Despite the strained transatlantic relationship and critical challenges to the global liberal order, the Council for European Studies (CES) remains steadfast in its mission to foster global collaboration through education and research. Founded 55 years ago, CES is a worldwide institution dedicated to applying Europe’s historical lessons to contemporary challenges—security, democracy, sustainability, and peace. Today, that mission is more urgent than ever. This is especially so in light of the emerging political and economic contraction of the Higher Education sector and the knock on impacts on the viability of many of the centers of European studies across Europe and North America. With members in nearly 50 countries, 80% of whom come from outside the U.S., CES is a truly international network. Through its prestigious prizes, research networks, publications, and the flagship International Conference of Europeanists, now in its 31st edition, all of which are funded by its membership alone, CES elevates cutting-edge scholarship and provides a vital forum for scholars and policymakers to connect, debate, and drive meaningful change.
Our upcoming conference, which takes place in Philadelphia this June, is themed, “Legacies and Ruptures: Making Sense of Europe.” This theme is highly relevant today, as the political, economic, and social upheavals we are witnessing have profound impacts on Europe and its global partners. In these uncertain times, stable organizations are crucial for navigating and rising above the political turmoil. CES strives to be such an organization, though it is not immune to the challenges and potential fallout. Therefore, it is vital to maintain our connections, networks, and communication channels, fostering a spirit of collaboration and critical reflection on our current realities.
I encourage all members who have submitted proposals for this year’s conference to stay committed and join us. Registration is now open. Additionally, I invite both members and non-members who haven’t submitted proposals but can attend in person to do so. In an era of complex geopolitical dynamics, transatlantic uncertainty, and the questioning of the true value of academia, the value of in-person conferences is unparalleled. As such, we believe that the unique benefits of face-to-face interactions and the solidarity of community are irreplaceable. Spontaneous conversations and personal interactions during panels, coffee breaks, and social events foster camaraderie and trust that are hard to replicate in other formats. The opportunity for dynamic networking, experiencing the stimulating atmosphere of a live audience, and contributing to a culturally diverse conference community reinforces a conference experience that reaffirms our shared values and provides a platform for meaningful dialogue and deeper understanding, even where opinions diverge.
At the same time, the CES leadership understands that unforeseen economic and personal circumstances (beyond the control of our members) may prevent some members from attending this year’s conference. In such cases, we are committed to finding ways for these members to still participate. If you find yourself in this situation, please contact us to discuss available options. We also remind members that special conference travel grants are available for early career and student members, with the application deadline on March 21st. For the first time we are also offering child care support. Additionally, if you are affiliated with any of our institutional members, you are entitled to a discount on conference rates. Each institutional member can also award up to two exceptional graduate students a conference fee waiver and a one-year CES membership. For more details on these benefits, please contact events@ces-europe.org.
Even if you can’t join us in Philadelphia, I urge you to renew your membership and remain an active part of the CES community. CES is a non-profit, cooperative style, member-led organization and its strength comes from you – the collective membership. This is particularly important because CES is currently funded solely through membership dues and conference registration fees. All of our income, which funds our events, grants and publications, comes directly from our membership. Together, we champion rigorous academic inquiry, essential for tackling Europe’s most pressing challenges. We build networks that bridge disciplines, borders, and perspectives. We invest in the next generation of scholars through grants, awards, and fellowships. And through our publications and events, we ensure that research doesn’t just stay in the academy—it shapes real-world debates and solutions. Now more than ever, your membership matters. So no matter where you are in the world, please recognise CES’s international status and stand with CES as it strives to represent your values. In doing so we will keep European studies thriving, relevant, and impactful.
Thank you.
Eamonn Butler McIntosh (Chair of the CES Executive Committee)
You can renew your membership at this link
You can register for the conference at this link
