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Geopolitics of Degrowth (Zagreb)
Join us in Zagreb for the International Degrowth conference where GEF will host a session on geopolitics!
About the conference
A perspective on degrowth from the post-socialist semi-periphery of Croatia, with a turbulent transition to capitalism in hindsight, suggests that capitalist development can lead to dedevelopment, depopulation and environmental degradation — making an alternative pathway into a just and sustainable future not only necessary but also politically desirable.
After the Hague, Manchester, Malmö, Budapest, Leipzig, Venice, Barcelona and Paris, the 9th International Degrowth Conference is taking place this summer in Zagreb. It will sit at the heart of a broader Zagreb Degrowth Week, a free arts and conviviality festival realised in cooperation with neighbouring capitals.
About GEF’s session
It makes sense for the EU to be a frontrunner in the transition to a degrowth society. This is a matter of ecological justice: EU countries bear the greatest historical responsibility for the crises of climate and biodiversity, and can free up natural resources for the Global South without loss of wellbeing. But what would degrowth mean for geopolitics? Can a Europe that is the first to renounce economic growth still remain (or become) a global player? Will it be able to defend itself, its allies, democracy and the international rule of law against aggressive autocrats? After all, the power of countries and alliances is largely determined by their wealth and military capabilities. Without billions in Western support, both money and arms, Ukraine would not be able to hold out against the Russian aggressor. This panel brings together policymakers, experts and practitioners for a frank conversation on the geopolitical risks and opportunities for a degrowth Europe. What concepts, alliances, or alternative forms of power might answer to the challenge of combining ecological, democratic, and geopolitical resilience?
Practicalities
Date and Time: 30.08.2023 at 6pm
Location: Zagreb
Venue: Centar Mladih ribnjak – Center for Youth Ribnjak, Park Ribnjak 1, 10000, Zagreb; room ZV-KC-2
Type: Non-academic Session