Conferences
The Asia Center’s conferences bring together scholars, practitioners, and policymakers—from Harvard and around the world—to explore transregional themes related to Asia.
Asia and Asians at Harvard Conference
Thursday, November 13 – Friday, November 14, 2025
Exploring the long, multifaceted relationship between Harvard and Asia, the conference highlighted more than a century of scholarly exchange, student experiences, policy influence, and cultural encounter. Through panels, performances, and exhibitions, it reflected on Harvard’s historical engagements across Asia while fostering new conversations about equitable and forward-looking collaboration.
Video forthcoming
Southeast Asia Regional Dynamics and International Linkages Conference
Friday, March 7, 2025
This conference explored Southeast Asia’s rapidly changing political, economic, and social landscapes, emphasizing regional trends, global linkages, and opportunities for deeper scholarly collaboration.
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Reincarnation in Tibetan Buddhism and the Institution of the Dalai Lama
Thursday, November 14 – Friday, November 15, 2024
This program investigated the foundations and contemporary relevance of reincarnation in Tibetan Buddhism, with a special focus on the institution of the Dalai Lama. Scholars and monastic experts engaged in interdisciplinary conversations on lineage, legitimacy, and religious authority.
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Asia–Africa Relations: Its Status and Possible Trajectories
Thursday, October 12 – Friday, October 13, 2023
This conference analyzed the evolving political, economic, and cultural ties between Asia and Africa. It brought together diverse perspectives to assess current developments and consider future directions in interregional cooperation.
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Navigating Asia: Interdisciplinary Conversations in Honor of Ezra Vogel
Friday, October 14 – Saturday, October 15, 2022
Held in honor of Professor Ezra Vogel’s legacy, this conference convened leading scholars to reflect on Asia’s past, present, and future. Through interdisciplinary dialogue, it highlighted new insights into the forces shaping Asia and its global connections.
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