**Cyprus Establishes First Association for Social Anthropologists**
*Limassol, Cyprus - September 1, 2026*
Cyprus has officially launched its first professional association dedicated to social anthropology, marking a significant milestone for the field in the region. The Cyprus Association of Social Anthropologists (CASA), a non-profit organization, aims to unite scholars, practitioners, and students who are either based in Cyprus or engaged in research related to the island and the broader Eastern Mediterranean.
Social anthropology, which studies human societies and the various ways individuals organize their social relationships, customs, and daily lives, will now have a dedicated platform for advocacy and development in Cyprus. CASA's formation is seen as a crucial step towards enhancing the visibility and understanding of anthropological research, both within academic institutions and the wider community.
The association has outlined several key priorities, including the promotion of ethical research practices, the advancement of Cyprus-focused anthropological studies on an international level, and the enhancement of public awareness regarding the discipline. These objectives reflect CASA's commitment to fostering a robust anthropological community that can contribute meaningfully to the understanding of social dynamics in Cyprus and beyond.
To celebrate its launch, CASA will host its inaugural event, a two-day conference titled “Our Common Grounds: Pasts, Presents, Futures of Anthropology in Cyprus.” The conference is co-organized with the Cyprus University of Technology (CUT) and is scheduled to take place on September 4-5, 2026, at the university's Limassol campus.
The conference program features ten parallel panels that will cover a diverse range of topics, including anthropology, history, archive studies, archaeology, arts, performance, and visual anthropology. This broad scope reflects the interdisciplinary nature of social anthropology and its relevance to various fields of study.
A highlight of the conference will be the keynote address delivered by Professor Rebecca Bryant from Utrecht University. Her talk, titled “The Eyes of the World Are on Us”: Geopolitical Intensities and the Anthropology of Cyprus, promises to provide valuable insights into the unique anthropological context of Cyprus amid its complex geopolitical landscape.
Additionally, the CASA Lifetime Contribution Award will be presented to Professor Vassos Argyrou in recognition of his significant contributions to the field of anthropology in and from Cyprus. This award underscores CASA's commitment to honoring those who have made impactful strides in the discipline.
The launch event, “A Conversation on Past, Present, Futures of Anthropology in Cyprus,” will also take place during the conference. This gathering aims to facilitate discussions among anthropologists from various generations, allowing them to reflect on the evolution of anthropology in Cyprus and its future directions.
The conference is free and open to the public, inviting all interested individuals to engage with the themes and discussions presented. Further details about the event can be found on CASA's official website at cyprusanthro.org/conferencesevents, or inquiries can be directed to [email protected].
The establishment of CASA is anticipated to enhance the academic and practical understanding of social anthropology in Cyprus, fostering a collaborative environment for researchers and practitioners alike. As the association embarks on its journey, it aims to contribute to the rich tapestry of cultural and social research in the region, ultimately benefiting both the academic community and the public at large.