International and Intercultural Communication

The division of International and Intercultural Communication is comprised of researchers whose interests include aspects of international and intercultural communication. In the age of globalization, communication and media are transcending the boundaries of cultures and nations. On the individual level, contacts between people with different lifestyles and of different origins are increasing. Media products are distributed and traded globally, while at the same time being adapted to local cultural settings. The tension between what is being perceived as the Self and what is being perceived as the Other can lead not only to new conflicts but also to expanding horizons of understanding. Culturally hybrid media and communication forms generate new transnational and transcultural communication networks and contexts, for example on the Internet. Dominant patterns of media trade between countries are shifting. Media systems are converging in some aspects, while keeping national and cultural structures and characteristics in others. To grasp these phenomena is at the core of the division’s interests.

The division of International and Intercultural Communication is devoted to the development of theory and methods relating to its field, i.e. the methods of comparison. Moreover, current problems are addressed, such as war and conflict communication or the promotion of intercultural understanding. While the division originates in communication and media studies, it promotes interdisciplinary cooperation with neighboring disciplines and emphasizes intensive exchange with the practitioners of intercultural and international communication in culture, politics, business, and other areas. Even if the division mainly focuses on the academic dialogue within the German Communication Association, practitioners are also welcome to participate. Furthermore, the Division of International and Intercultural Communication supports young scholars in getting in touch with senior scholars. For interested researchers and non-members of the German Communication Association, the division offers the opportunity to participate in the closely linked Network of International and Intercultural Communication (NIIK). The network organizes regular conferences and joint division meetings. Members of the Division and the Network are regularly informed about the ongoing activities.

Chair: Dr.  Christine Horz (christine.horz@rub.de)

Vice Chair: Dr. Julia Lönnendonker (julia.loennendonker@vub.be)