Catania, 1 December 2020
Dear Friends and Colleagues,
We are living very difficult times, affected by war, inequalities, deprivation and security threats.
In Europe and the rest of the world, we are constantly challenged in our daily life and duties. The current pandemic has also dramatically demonstrated the weakness of our societies and institutions. In many countries and regions around the world, the need for social distancing and the limitations on civic life have also brought more visible manifestations of autocratic power, which is exactly what all democratic peace advocates have always feared. The implications of violent conflicts for civilians have worsened, exacerbated by the shortage of medical supplies and access to tests.
At the same time, we have all learnt to be more resilient, to adapt to different living and working conditions. We have experienced virtual tools for increasing our connectedness.
As global citizens and peace scholars, we are obliged to understand, investigate and try to change what happens to our communities. Thus we need to develop our theoretical efforts, to carry out more empirically-based research, and interact with both practitioners and activists.
What EuPRA can do today is extremely important. It is already a large community. However, it needs to grow more, to increase its membership and to include more scholars and young people.
Contributions from everyone are necessary for keeping the association alive and to allow more activities. We look forward to receiving your help in making EuPRA a place for growing intellectually and sharing all views and beliefs.
Daniela Irrera
President, EuPRA