6. Tagung des Netzwerks Kritische Kommunikationswissenschaft vom 16.–18.04.2026 in Jena // 6th Conference of the Critical Communication Studies Network from 16 to 18 April 2026 in Jena

[This announcement has been translated by WARN; the Conference Language is German]

Anti-fascist media and communication studies?

The next Critical Communication Studies Network conference is motivated by the conviction that anti-fascism should be a matter of course in academia, journalism, culture and politics, and not just on the left, but across the political spectrum – especially in Germany, in light of its National Socialist past. However, anti-fascism is often defamed and criminalised as an extremist attitude in science and practice, including within the fields of media and communication studies. The conference title is inspired by Isabella Weber’s concept of ‘anti-fascist economic policy’ and aims to encourage further interdisciplinary development of this perspective.

In the spirit of critical media and communication studies, we aim to explore the interplay between media, communication, the public sphere, fascism and anti-fascism. Our analysis will not be confined to a single discipline, such as media, technology, culture, economics or individual actors. By working together, we aim to find ways to move beyond ‘helpless anti-fascism’ (W. F. Haug). This means linking emotional and moral messages, such as calls for civil courage, tolerance, human solidarity, independent thinking, and the defence of democratic rights, to a scientific analysis of the socio-economic causes of fascism and its associated cultural and ideological interpretations.

Drawing on our understanding of historical fascism and contemporary fascist tendencies, we aim to strengthen and develop anti-fascist approaches in media and communication studies. Certain media outlets and journalists are clearly cultural pioneers of new forms of fascism, while others, together with academic institutions, are the targets of repression.

Registration is now open!
https://forms.cloud.microsoft.com/e/233PD6cA54
(Registration deadline: 2 April 2026)

You can find all the information you need on the conference website: https://krikowi.net/jena/. We will also publish a preliminary conference programme there, which will be updated as necessary.

Information on affordable accommodation options can also be found on the above-mentioned website. Additionally, we are arranging carpooling opportunities. Please feel free to contact us with offers and enquiries.

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