The Institute of Advanced Studies in Humanities and Social Sciences (IAS) of the University of Macau is now calling for papers for the “Fourth IAS Annual Conference”, which will be held from November 7 to 8, 2024. The conference theme is Understanding the Population Dynamics: Multidisciplinary Perspectives on a Global Challenge.

Conference Theme

The global population dynamics manifests in many critical aspects—rapid population growth in some regions due to immigration and significant declines in others because of social and economic reasons. These demographic shifts present complex challenges that impact socio-economic stability, environmental sustainability, and global health. This conference aims to unpack the multifaceted nature of the population dynamics through a multidisciplinary lens, exploring its causes, consequences, and the efficacy of current strategies aimed at addressing these issues. Drawing upon recent research and case studies, this conference will provide a comprehensive overview of the demographic trends shaping our world and facilitate the exchange of ideas and best practices for addressing these trends. This conference is geared towards academics, policymakers, environmentalists, and professionals working in public health and urban development, as well as anyone interested in the intersection of population dynamics and global sustainability.

Objective

The primary objective of this conference is to foster a deeper understanding of the global population dynamics, emphasizing an integrated approach that incorporates insights from demography, economics, law, philosophy, history, environmental science, and public policy. By examining the global challenges of population increase and decrease, this conference will highlight the need for nuanced, region-specific solutions while also advocating for international collaboration in addressing global demographic imbalances.

Key Topics to be Covered

Submissions can be made around, but not limited to, the following topics:

• Demographic Overview: Global trends in population growth and decline; identification of key regions facing overpopulation and under population challenges.
• Socio -Economic Impacts: Analysis of how demographic shifts affect economic growth, labor markets, healthcare systems, and urban planning.
• Gender and Population Change: The uneven growth of population due to gender biases and how to address the related issues.
• Immigration and Population Growth and Decrease: Examination of internal and international migration trends, causes, and effects.
• Population Ageing in the Age of Intelligent Technology: Intersection of demographic shifts towards older populations and the advancements in intelligent technologies.
• Environmental Considerations: The impact of population density on resource depletion, pollution, and climate change initiatives.
• Policy Responses and Solutions: Evaluation of current population policies and planning strategies in different countries; discussion of effective measures and innovative solutions.
• Future Directions: Proposing a framework for global cooperation on demographic issues; the role of technology and innovation in managing population dynamics.

Submission Guidelines

We invite papers from both established scholars and early-career academics.

• Proposal: Each proposal should include an abstract of your paper/presentation up to 500 words;
• Information for event promotion: Please submit a short bio of the author(s)/presenter(s) up to 100 words and a recent photo of yourself;
• Submission portal and deadline: Proposals and other information must be submitted to ias.programme@um.edu.mo by 25 July 2024. Full papers must be submitted by 1 October 2024.

Dates and Other Conference Arrangement

• The 2-day conference will be held at the Library Auditorium of the University of Macau (E2, G012) with registration starting on 6 November and departure on 9 November;
• Scholars not being able to attend in person can take part in the conference online via Zoom;
• The conference will be conducted in Chinese or English and simultaneous interpretation will not be provided.

Contact information

Should there be any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our email ias.programme@um.edu.mo, we look forward to your reply and your participation at our conference.