Centring on the theme of “Civil Society, Civic Engagement and Its Impact on Military  Welfare”, the conference seeks to explore the transformative influence of civil society (in its  institutionalised form), as well as of various other types of civic engagement on the  development and evolution of military welfare. This event aims to bring together scholars from  history, sociology, military studies, social policy, and related fields to examine how civil society  shaped—and was shaped by—the changing practices of welfare within military institutions  across different countries and contexts. The main focus will be directed towards the complex  and dynamic interactions between civilian organizations, philanthropic initiatives, reformers,  public opinion, and state-supported initiatives (including the legal background) and actors in  redefining the care, support, and rights provided to serving soldiers, veterans, and their families.  

We look forward to papers analysing how shifting societal values, the rise of voluntary  associations, advocacy movements, and growing public engagement affected military welfare  reform—ranging from healthcare and pensions to education, housing, and psychological  support. Proposals engaging critically with the less studied or more troubling aspects of military  welfare, including but not limited to the entanglement of veteran support systems with radical  nationalism, eugenics, and biopolitical projects are also of interest. We particularly welcome  contributions using innovative sources or methodologies and encourage early-career  researchers and postgraduate students to apply.

For more information, visit the Network’s website.