ELTE Faculty of Social Sciences will host Dr. Krisztina Lajosi-Moore, Professor at the University of Amsterdam, as the instructor of a special PhD elective course this fall titled Decolonizing European Cultural Heritage: Circulation, Memory and Power.

The course examines how ideas of European culture and identity have been shaped through global connections, colonial legacies, and unequal power relations. Drawing on influential works such as Eurowhiteness by Hans Kundnani and Every Monument Will Fall by Dan Hicks, participants will explore how museums, monuments, collections, and other forms of cultural heritage shape public memory and influence which histories are remembered, recognized, or overlooked.

Addressing questions that are increasingly relevant across Europe and beyond, the course encourages students to critically reflect on the relationship between culture, memory, colonialism, and democracy. Through historical analysis, contemporary debates, and case studies, it investigates what it means to decolonize cultural heritage and how more inclusive and historically responsible narratives can be developed.

Dr. Lajosi-Moore is a Cultural Historian whose research spans nationalism studies, cultural history, heritage studies, political thought, music and opera studies, and digital heritage. Her work focuses on the role of culture in democratic societies, examining how cultural institutions, artistic practices, and historical narratives shape political identities, civic participation, and democratic resilience.

The visit of Dr. Lajosi-Moore highlights ELTE Faculty of Social Sciences' international outlook and its dedication to providing doctoral students with access to distinguished scholars and emerging areas of research. Bringing together perspectives from cultural history, heritage studies, and political thought, the course introduces students to debates that are shaping contemporary discussions about democracy, identity, and cultural memory. Such collaborations help strengthen ELTE's international partnerships while creating valuable opportunities for intellectual exchange within the Faculty's research community.