Participation in the 18th EASA Biennial Conference, Barcelona, Spain

Antragstellender: Shubham Sharma
Visual Anthropology, Media and Documentary Practices; Professional School Universität Münster

Attending the European Association of Social Anthropologists (EASA) 2024 conference in Barcelona was an enriching experience, where scholars gathered to explore the theme of 'Doing and Undoing with Anthropology'. I had the privilege of presenting my work as part of the panel titled 'Un-learning and Indigenising Anthropology for Transdisciplinary Engagements on the Frontline'. The panel emphasized decolonizing methodologies, urging us to rethink how anthropology engages with knowledge production and marginalized communities. The conference was hosted in an ideal setting, with the University of Barcelona's rich history and culture adding to the academic depth.

During my presentation, I explored the role of rumours in the cultural tapestry of Punjab. I drew connections between my research and the panel’s call to question dominant paradigms in anthropology, particularly those that reinforce colonial practices. My argument centred on the importance of engaging with Indigenous knowledge systems and promoting a relational approach to research, wherein communities are not mere subjects but active collaborators. I was honoured to engage with an audience eager to discuss the intersection of decolonial thought and transdisciplinary methodologies, with questions centring around how to ethically navigate such work.

The EASA conference was a melting pot of ideas. One of the most striking aspects was the diversity of topics ranging from climate change, identity politics, migration, and the intersections of anthropology with activism. Several panels stood out, but "Un-learning and Indigenising Anthropology" deeply resonated with me, particularly discussions around the challenges of working with indigenous knowledge in institutional settings. I also attended sessions on climate action and global inequalities, which underscored the urgency of transdisciplinary approaches in solving real-world problems. The dialogues were intellectually stimulating, with robust exchanges between participants.

Networking with other scholars was another highlight. I engaged in productive conversations during breaks and social events, learning about innovative projects that seek to merge academia with activism. The atmosphere was collegial, and it was inspiring to see anthropologists actively questioning and reshaping the discipline.

In conclusion, my experience at EASA 2024 not only reaffirmed the importance of unlearning colonial legacies in anthropology but also encouraged me to push forward with more collaborative and relational methods in my own research. The dialogues I engaged in at the conference have already sparked new ideas that I look forward to incorporating into my work. Being part of a global conversation with anthropologists dedicated to progressive change has left a lasting impact, shaping my future research trajectory.