About ARC International Roundtables
The international roundtables, which began in 2010, are an important instrument for the concerns of ARC. In the past, these gatherings, normally held under a certain theme and at St. John's University in Bangkok, was confined to a small group of researchers (25-40) who participated by invitation. This gathering was normally held in the middle of October every year to coincide with the semester break in many Asian countries.
The roundtable has become a regular academic activity of the center. The conference tries to study the field of social communication as the communication of and in human society in Asia. This refers not only to the media and technology but to all means and ways of communicating in human culture related to religion. All participants (past and present) become part of the ARC Researchers' Network and will receive free copies of the bi-annual ARC Journal "Religion and Social Communication" as well as other publications of the Center such as the ARC Book Series.
The conference usually happens in Bangkok, where the center is based. But it can also move to other countries if the theme of the gathering warrants and a special interest proposes such a shift.
The theme of the roundtable for each year is discussed at the annual gathering but is ultimately decided on by the academic board of the ARC.
In 2020 and 2021, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the roundtables were held either partially online (2020) or completely online (2021). As of 2021, there have been a total of 12 international roundtables organized.
