The conference aims to bring together policy-makers, activists, civil society organizations/practitioners, academic and research scholars, students, and other stakeholders from around the world in a common forum to share knowledge about the caste system, and its connection to other systems of oppression, and discuss best practices and solutions for how we can work together to end caste discrimination as a shared interconnected struggle for a more equitable and just world.
Thematic Scope:
The conference will have a broad-based thematic scope as laid out hereunder:
1. Understanding caste discrimination and its impacts: Exploring the historical, cultural, and social dimensions of caste-based discrimination at its structural form, its root cause, and its impacts on individuals, communities, and societies, encompassing prevalent social, economic, cultural, and health inequities.
2. Legal frameworks and policy interventions: Analyzing existing legal frameworks and policy interventions aimed at combating extant caste discrimination promoting equality and dismantling structural casteism.
3. Intersectionality and multiple forms of discrimination: Examining the intersectionality of caste with other forms of discrimination based on gender identity, sexual orientation, race/ethnicity, religion, socio-economic status, disability, and more.
4. Education and awareness raising: Discussing the role of education, media, and awareness-raising campaigns in challenging caste-based stereotypes and promoting social inclusion of Dalit and caste-oppressed groups.
5. Empowerment and social mobilization: Showcasing successful initiatives aimed at empowering marginalized caste communities, fostering social mobilization, and promoting collective action.
6. Economic empowerment and livelihoods: Exploring strategies for enhancing economic opportunities and livelihoods for individuals from marginalized caste backgrounds.
7. Grassroots Movements and Activism: Highlighting successful grassroots movements, advocacy efforts, and community-led initiatives aimed at challenging caste-based discrimination and promoting social change.
8. International cooperation and solidarity: Discussing the role of international cooperation, solidarity, and advocacy in addressing caste discrimination as a global human rights issue.
Methodology:
The conference will feature a combination of interactive learning-sharing activities such as
1 Pre-event stakeholder meetings, a day before the main event;
The main event will consist of two sessions, each including the following components:
- Keynote addresses
- Plenary sessions with invited speakers
- Thematic workshops (parallel/side sessions)
- Poster paper presentations
- Panel discussions
- Youth Action Session
- Marketplace (knowledge and fair-trade resources sharing)
- Networking opportunities
