Social Memory
Social memory, as an inherently dynamic concept, cannot be conceived of in isolation from our environment, and the social, cultural and political transformations taking place in it. Memory is socially and politically constructed, which is also why it has a vital place in conflict transformation and peacebuilding processes.
DEMOS takes a critical perspective on static memory building informed by mechanisms such as national historiography by which those in power impose their own hegemonic truths, instead claiming memory to be a dynamic site of struggle. Adopting a subject-centred approach to memory, it underlines that collective memory itself is not homogenous across the board, and that different social subjects are in possession of divergent social memories. Only by taking account of this variety is it possible to achieve the justice demanded by victims, uncover the truth, and work towards a permanent peace.