Study Group for Societal Change in the Post-Socialist States

Background

This Study Group has its origins in an ESRC-funded seminar series (Trans-National Issues, Local Concerns: Insights from Russia, Central and Eastern Europe and the UK) which ran during 2003-04 with the aim of exploring contemporary social issues in the post-socialist region and related conceptual and methodological concerns. More information concerning the work of this series can be found at the website

This Study Group aims to provide a focal point for research concerning contemporary societal trends and social issues evident in the countries of the former Soviet Union (FSU) and Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). It is strongly inter-disciplinary in its conception and actively encourages participation from all areas of the social sciences including those engaged in postgraduate study. Furthermore, it places emphasis on the involvement of both practitioner and policymaker audiences.

Forthcoming activities

A workshop exploring “The State in Everyday Life: Historical and Contemporary Perspectives” will take place in early January 2008 at the University of Glasgow . More details to follow.

Contact details

Further information concerning the group’s activities can be obtained from Dr Svetlana Stephenson, London Metropolitan University, London and Dr Jonathan Oldfield, University of Glasgow

Key aims

To foster research co-operation between social scientists working in UK universities, facilitating the development of joint research projects and publications;
To enable academics and postgraduates to engage in the exchange of ideas and form close networks, supported by regular conference, seminar and workshop participation;
To promote active debate with respect to issues of methodology and research design;
To consider the changing boundaries and definitions of post-socialism and the value of transnational comparison;
To support the active exchange between academics, practitioners and policymakers, with particular reference to those working in CEE and the FSU;
To support and encourage postgraduate work related to contemporary social issues in CEE and the FSU