By Teo Ramari
FSDR’s Kesäpäivä brought members together for an afternoon of research exchange, discussion, and networking before the summer break. This year’s event introduced a new research showcase format, featuring presentations by two FSDR members from the University of Helsinki.
Meri Mononen-Matias presented her work on community-based educational models in Oaxaca, exploring how Indigenous community curricula challenge neoliberal and colonial approaches to development. Usman Ashraf shared research on co-option and resistance in the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), highlighting the complex ways local communities negotiate extractive development.
The presentations were followed by a lively discussion and audience Q&A, before members continued conversations over refreshments. We would like to thank our speakers and everyone who attended for making this year’s Kesäpäivä such an engaging and enjoyable event!