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    4. Conference: Christianity and Slavery in the Dutch Caribbean Islands, Surinam, and the Netherlands

    Conference: Christianity and Slavery in the Dutch Caribbean Islands, Surinam, and the Netherlands

    10 until 14 November 2025

    The conference “Christianity and Slavery in the Dutch Caribbean Islands, Surinam, and the Netherlands” will explore the complex and multifaceted relationship between Christianity and the institution of slavery in the Dutch Caribbean, Surinam, and the Netherlands. 

    Date:
    10 until 14 November 2025
    Tags:
    conference

    Image: Cathedral of Thorns, by Kattiel (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons

    About the conference

    The conference will bring together scholars from diverse disciplines to explore the complex and deeply impactful history of how Christianity shaped, justified, resisted, or enabled slavery in these regions. This event will critically examine the theological justifications for slavery, the role of Christian institutions, acts of resistance, and the long-lasting effects of this history on contemporary societies. While the focus will be on the Dutch Caribbean, Surinam, and the Netherlands, discussions will also address the broader Caribbean context and other former Dutch colonial territories.

    The conference is part of a NWO funded project (www.kerkenslavernij.nl) and organised by the University of Curaçao (UoC), the Protestant Theological University (PThU), VU Amsterdam, and the National Institute for Dutch Slavery Past and Heritage (NiNsee).

    Practical information

    • Location: Willemstad, Curaçao
    • Date: 10-14 November 2025

    Venue

    The conference will be held at the University of Curaçao, Jan Noorduynweg 111, Willemstad, Curaçao.

    Costs

    The conference fee is € 200 and can be paid on registration through this page. You can use creditcard or iDeal. (Please be advised that you will still need to book your own hotel and flight to Willemstad. This is not included in the conference fee.)

    Payment deadline is 1 May 2025.

    Registration