Short Abstract:

The aim of this round table is to discuss the specific trajectories of the different associations of different African Studies in Europe, their specific national challenges and their visions and perspectives in the European and global context.

Long Abstract:

The German "Vereinigung für Afrikawissenschaften in Deutschland (VAD e.V.)" is celebrating its 50th birthday in 2019. Similar organization do exist in most European countries. Considering the German case, the association has gone through a lively development from an organization with dedicated political ambitions and activities in Germany to one, which considers itself as a professional association whose duty is mainly organizing an international biannual event. Over the years this biannual conference has become bigger in scope and switched completely to English as the main conference language.

Despite the existence of ECAS and other international conferences in African Studies, the development of membership and conference attendance seem to be on a promising way. But is this the only purpose of national organisations like the VAD? We shall discuss the specific trajectories of the respective associations, their specific national challenges and their perspectives in the European and global context. What are the role in the respective national public sphere and how are they involved in the discussion of African affairs? Do they see themselves as advisors for decision takers, and how is this put into practice? How can these associations contribute to improve the public awareness of the African issues in their countries - and is this really a feasible ambition at all? We bring together colleagues from several European Countries:

* Felix Kofi Ameka (Nederlandse Verengiging voor Afrikastudies),

* Ambreena Manji (ASA-UK),

* Hana Horakova (Czech Association for African Studies),

* Antonio Pezzano (Associazione per gli Studi Africani),

* Hans P. Hahn (VAD).