Raising the profile of Latin American studies in Bayreuth

When people think of the University of Bayreuth’s key research areas, Africa is often the first thing that springs to mind. In this field, there is a close-knit network, regular exchange programmes and, not least, a high level of institutional visibility thanks to the Cluster of Excellence. 

For researchers focusing on Latin America, however, the situation has long been different. “In Bayreuth, many researchers focus on Africa. There is already a great deal of networking taking place there. Those researching Latin America, on the other hand, are not yet very visible and are less well connected,” says Luis Bastidas. Upon his arrival in 2019, the cultural studies scholar quickly realised that whilst there are several people at the university working on topics related to Latin America, they usually know little about one another.

Just get started – in true Latin American style

To change this, Luis and María launched the first “Colloquium on Latin America” in 2023. The inaugural event was held in a hybrid format, with around 15 interested participants taking part. Since then, the number has risen steadily. Now, researchers – mainly from the cultural studies but also from related disciplines – regularly attend the digital meetings. There was no need to draw up a lengthy plan for this. 

On the contrary: “That’s how it works in Latin America. You give it a go and then see how it goes,” says Luis with a laugh. It is precisely this open, low-threshold approach that makes the Colloquium accessible. There is a call for submissions on the website. 45 researchers have already taken advantage of this. In terms of content, the format is deliberately broad in scope. Discussions cover the state of research, master’s or doctoral projects, methodological questions or current developments in the respective countries. Another aim: to raise awareness. “We want to show that we exist,” emphasises Bastidas.

Increasingly close-knit – and the next meeting has already been scheduled

 The final session of the series will take place in person at the Iwalewahaus and will include a film screening followed by a discussion. The group has now grown steadily, and the focus has shifted more towards personal interaction. Luis describes the atmosphere at the meetings as “open, curious and motivated” – many participants are delighted to finally have a platform where their region takes centre stage. 

Preparations are already underway for the next round of presentations. It is a “lecture series” and, since last semester, can also be taken as a Bachelor’s or Master’s seminar. New faces are always particularly welcome: students, PhD candidates and researchers who have not yet networked or are simply curious about what is happening in Bayreuth regarding Latin America.

More information:

https://www.bayceer.uni-bayreuth.de/CoLatinAmerica/