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Jan Oberg

Two Conferences in Shanghai: Reflections on Discourse, Dialogue, and the Non-Studies of Peace

In October 2025, I attended two major academic conferences in Shanghai—both by invitation, and, curiously, as the only scholar from Scandinavia. That absence felt unjust to the more experienced Nordic experts in China studies who deserve a seat at such global forums.

What unfolded was a journey through two distinct but interwoven events—each offering a lens into China’s intellectual landscape and its evolving role in the world.

The 2nd World Conference on China Studies

The first event, the 2nd World Conference on China Studies, brought together over 500 scholars from 50 countries under the theme “Historical and Contemporary China: A Global Perspective.” I participated in the sub-forum titled “China in Global Context: Continuity and Innovation of Civilisation.”

It was a masterfully orchestrated gathering…

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Peace & future researcher + ‌Art Photographer

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