Ethnic Pluralism in Europe in 21st Century-Lecture by Professor Konstantinos Karatzas

The “Continental Catch Webinar Series” organized by the Department of International Studies, Political Science and History, CHRIST (Deemed to be University) was conducted on 29th of January 2021. The webinar was on “Ethnic Pluralism in Europe in 21st Century”. Professor Konstantinos Karatzas, Founder and Director of Global Institute for Research, Education and Scholarship (GIRES) was the speaker for the webinar. Fr Jose CC, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Christ University; Dr Madhumati Deshpande, HOD of the Department of International Studies, Political Science and History, along with the faculty members and the students of the department were present. Dr Madhumati Deshpande, Department of International Studies, Political Science and History, welcomed and introduced the speaker. Prof Karatzas spoke at length on pluralism and multiculturalism in Europe and how the European Union could be the melting point of the same. His speech highlighted many crucial concepts related to pluralism like notions, stereotypes, gender equality and economy in the European Union that was quite enlightening due to the statistical representations and eloquence that he displayed. He concluded his talk with remarks on diversity in Europe. He also mentioned that change in mentality does not mean there is a change in identity. Prof Karatzas believes that one must look on to the commonalities rather than focusing on the differences so that there is a mutual understanding in the society. The event was quite engaging with the thought-provoking Q&A session. Few of the questions posed were on the problems of Balkan states, suggestions to the South Asian nations on ethnic pluralism and plans of the European Union concerning migration from Syria and Iraq. The major points highlighted were that people and nations must learn from the mistakes committed by Europe. Rather than focusing on the differences, one should focus on the commonalities. Making good relations and collaborating with countries would be beneficial for the country’s economies. Prof Karatzas opines that one must have global qualities such as mutual understanding, respecting people and equality. The event came to a close with Dr Madhumati Deshpande delivering the concluding remarks followed by the Vote of Thanks by Lakshmi Karlekar of 4 MAIS. The webinar came to an end with a group picture. Report compiled by Sri Sai Hemalahari and Anchal Bhowmick 4 MAIS