This panel aims to bring together diverse perspectives on sciences, technologies, and innovations both during socialism and in the post-socialist period. The intention is to combine complementary approaches: social science analysis of innovation processes, insights from natural sciences practice and infrastructure, and practical experience from contemporary innovation sectors in the region. Despite their diverse trajectories, countries across the Caucasus, Eurasia, and Eastern Europe share complex socialist legacies that have shaped their scientific and technological development. Building on existing scholarship at the intersection of Science and Technology Studies (STS) and Innovation Studies, we seek to explore how different types of innovation were enabled or constrained within socialist and post-socialist contexts. Of particular interest are cases that challenge theoretical frameworks developed primarily in advanced capitalist economies. This panel is envisioned as a prototype for future STS sections at subsequent meetings, supporting the development and strengthening of STS research through the YCIE Center in Yerevan.

This panel brings together international scholars examining climate issues across the post-Soviet space through various disciplinary lenses, including history, sociology, media studies, education and anthropology. The panel aims to foster dialogue between researchers working on different aspects of environmental and climate challenges in the region (including Caucasus), combining historical perspectives with contemporary developments. The collapse of the Soviet Union has left a complex legacy in environmental governance, scientific approaches, and public understanding of climate issues. At this year meeting, we will explore together how different post-Soviet states approach climate challenges, adapt to environmental changes, and engage with global climate discourse, while also examining historical continuities and ruptures in environmental thinking and practice. The panel seeks to facilitate dialogue between scholars working on environmental issues in the post-Soviet space while contributing to broader discussions about climate change, environmental governance, and societal transformation in regions undergoing significant political and economic changes.

«В случае с криптовалютами важна идея сообщества: люди объединились и создали свой инструмент взаимодействия, обмена деньгами друг с другом. Неудивительно, что создатели криптовалют — к примеру, Виталик Бутерин, сооснователь Ethereum, — пытаются экспериментировать с разными форматами организации людей, придумывают демократические и республиканские модели, проекты сообществ, схожие с древнегреческими полисами»