ANNOUNCEMENT

Convergence and Divergence of Family Law in Europe

The Law Faculty of the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam in cooperation with the Amsterdam Centre for Child Studies (ACK) is organising a two-day international conference on 12-13 September 2006 entitled: ‘Convergence and Divergence of Family Law in Europe’.

The issue of convergence/divergence of family law in Europe remains highly controversial. While convergence has been proven by many eminent scholars, others adamantly deny its existence. Through the establishment of the Commission on European Family Law and the subsequent elaboration of non-binding Principles of European Family Law, this discourse has become even clearer. Increased clarity with regard to the convergence/divergence trends is crucial for the harmonisation endeavour. However, the problem of convergence/divergence is not simply a theoretical matter, but rather an empirical question. These theoretical and empirical issues have been the subject of a five-year research period by Prof. Antokolskaia. On the basis of this research, a comprehensive discussion of this discourse will be held during a 2 day conference in Amsterdam, during which the floor will be given to eminent experts in comparative family law from various European countries, both proponents and opponents of harmonisation.

Conference fee
Before July 1st 2006: 200 Euro for participants, 120 Euro for accompanying persons
After July 1st 2006: 220 Euro for participants, 150 Euro for accompanying persons

Accommodation
Participants can book an accommodation directly via the link on the Conference Website. Warning! Due to coinciding times with the mega-media congress IBC in Amsterdam, there may be problems with the availability of the hotels. Please book you accommodation as soon as possible!

Information
For more information regarding the conference programme and registration please visit the conference webpage: www.psy.vu.nl/convergence or www.ack.vu.nl.