Call for Papers for the International Congress on Ottoman Studies (OSARK)
Dear Colleague,
The International Congress on Ottoman Studies (OSARK) serves as an esteemed academic platform facilitating scholarly discourse and the dissemination of innovative research in Ottoman studies. Emphasizing interdisciplinary and novel methodological approaches, OSARK fosters intellectual exchange among researchers globally. The fourth congress is scheduled to take place in Venice, Italy, hosted by Ca’ Foscari University, from October 17 to 19, 2025.
The Significance of the Congress
The Ottoman Empire represents a pivotal chapter in human history, distinguished by its vast geographical scope, ethnic and religious plurality, rich material culture, and exceptional longevity. While substantial scholarly work has been undertaken from diverse perspectives, the need for further research remains pressing. A century has passed since the dissolution of the empire, leading to the emergence of approximately thirty nation-states within its former territories. However, political tensions, identity conflicts, and sectarian disputes have persisted in these regions since the fall of the empire. This enduring complexity underscores the necessity of reexamining the mechanisms through which the Ottoman Empire sustained harmony among diverse ethnic and religious communities over six centuries. Revisiting the Ottoman experience is essential for a more nuanced understanding of contemporary issues rooted in its historical legacy.
The Congress’ Objective
The International Congress of Ottoman Studies (OSARK) seeks to establish a comprehensive platform for the discussion of contemporary research in Ottoman history, to offer forward-looking perspectives for the field, and to contribute to the formulation of a strategic roadmap for Ottoman studies. Despite the significant progress achieved in the discipline, modern Ottoman studies have been shaped predominantly by a Western-centric historiographical framework, a perspective that continues to prevail in various ways. This approach has limited the development of alternative viewpoints and has hindered the ability of societies in former Ottoman territories to cultivate constructive and meaningful relationships. While acknowledging the valuable contributions of Orientalist scholarship, OSARK endeavors to promote a perspective that fosters awareness among these societies of their shared historical coexistence. Accordingly, the primary objective of the congress is to unite researchers in Ottoman studies, provide a guiding platform for their work, propose directions for future research, and contribute to the construction of a coherent academic roadmap.
To further these aims, OSARK congresses are planned to be convened in various locations across the broader Ottoman geography. The fourth edition of the congress, following the successful events held in Sakarya (2015), Tirana (2018), and Istanbul (2022), is planned to take place in Venice, a city that maintains strong ties with the Ottoman Empire and still bears traces of this historical relationship.
Main Themes of the Congress
Although OSARK meetings are open to all themes related to Ottoman studies, the main themes are determined according to the host country of the congress. For instance, the main theme of the congress held in Tirana in 2018 was "The Ottoman Balkans." The main theme of the congress to be held in Venice in 2025 will be "The Ottoman Mediterranean." In addition to this theme, presentations on other topics related to Ottoman history will also be accepted.
The theme "Ottoman Mediterranean" explores the historical, cultural, and economic dynamics of the Mediterranean as a central region within the Ottoman Empire. It highlights the interactions between diverse communities, trade networks, and political entities that shaped the region's identity under Ottoman rule. By focusing on this theme, the congress aims to examine the Mediterranean's role as a crossroads of civilizations and a space of coexistence, conflict, and exchange. This perspective seeks to shed light on the complexities of the Ottoman presence in the Mediterranean and its lasting influence on the region's history. Hosting the congress in Venice highlights its unique historical role as a prominent maritime republic that maintained extensive and multifaceted relations with the Ottoman Empire.
Guidelines for Academic Submissions
The official languages of the congress are Turkish, English, and Italian. Submissions may be made either as individual papers or as part of a panel. Panel proposals must consist of three to four presentations and should be submitted under a unified panel title. Each panelist is required to register individually in the system, and the panel title must be specified when uploading individual abstracts. Abstracts should not exceed 250 words and must clearly outline the research question, methodology, key findings, and the potential contribution to the field. All submissions must be completed through the official congress website (osmanliarastirmalari.org) no later than March 15, 2025.
For any inquiries or further assistance, please contact the organizing committee via email at [email protected] .
Sincerely,
Zahit Atçıl and Vera Costantini
Chairs of OSARK 2025
Key Dates for the Congress
- Deadline for Abstract Submission: 15 March 2025
- Notification of Accepted Abstracts: 15 April 2025
- Congress Dates: 17–19 October 2025