International Conference on Sustainability through Tradition in Bijakovići, Medjugorje

Bijakovići in Međugorje are preparing for an exceptionally significant event – the International Conference "Sustainability Through Tradition," which will take place from January 31 to February 1, 2025. The conference, organized within the GROWTH project, aims to connect experts, scientists, researchers, and practitioners from various fields with a special focus on preserving tradition as a key element of sustainable development. This is an opportunity to discuss the importance of traditional knowledge and practices in the modern world, as well as to strengthen cooperation among countries in the region and beyond.

The Importance of Tradition in the Contemporary Context

In a world where technology and social circumstances are rapidly changing, tradition often remains neglected, even though it holds invaluable value for the development of sustainable practices. The "Sustainability Through Tradition" conference provides a platform for discussing how to integrate traditional knowledge into contemporary challenges such as climate change, sustainable tourism, and the circular economy. Special attention will be given to issues of preserving cultural and natural heritage as the foundation of community identity.

Key Topics and Sessions

The conference program is structured into three thematic sessions that will allow for multidisciplinary exchange of ideas and experiences:

• Challenges of Contemporary Education: Focused on intergenerational transfer of knowledge and skills, and the role of education in preserving tradition.
• Sustainability Through Gastronomy: Exploring how traditional cuisine can be the foundation of sustainable development and the promotion of local communities.
• Tourism and the Circular Economy: Preserving cultural and natural heritage while simultaneously building a sustainable tourism model.

Opportunities for Researchers and Experts

Conference participants have the opportunity to present their research through various formats, including scientific papers and professional presentations. Scientific papers undergo rigorous peer review through a double-blind process, and the best ones will be published in the renowned journal "Guidelines." This is a unique opportunity for researchers to contribute to the development of knowledge in the field of sustainability and tradition.

Global and Local Contributions

One of the key advantages of this conference is its hybrid format, which allows for both in-person and online participation. This expands the reach of the conference, making it accessible to participants from around the world. Experts from the region and abroad are expected to participate, which will further enrich the exchange of ideas and experiences. The organizers believe that this event will become a recognizable model of collaboration for similar initiatives in the future.

Special Features of the Conference

Participation is completely free, which is rare for events of this type. This provides an additional opportunity for students and young researchers to get involved and contribute. The official languages of the conference include the languages of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenian, and English, ensuring wide accessibility for different audiences.

Registration and Deadlines

To participate, it is necessary to submit paper abstracts by November 15, 2024, while completed papers must be submitted by March 3, 2025. Detailed instructions for preparing papers are available on the official website of the "Guidelines" journal. The organizers invite all interested parties to join this exceptional event and contribute to preserving tradition as the foundation of sustainability.

Given the growing importance of such initiatives, the "Sustainability Through Tradition" conference represents an important step toward connecting tradition and the modern world, opening space for innovative solutions that respect the heritage of past generations.