The 12th Tensions of Europe Conference

Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands

8-10 July, 2026

Conference theme: The meaning of the past in sustainable futures

In seeking to understand the pluralistic and multidimensional global challenges of our time, long-term perspectives appear more relevant than ever. Shifting geopolitical dynamics are reshaping Europe’s positioning, self-image, and its ambitions in a global context. These shifts require historians to critically revisit established narratives of how – within and beyond Europe – its material culture has shaped and re-shaped livelihoods; how its infrastructures and trade networks have connected and disconnected localities; or how transnational elites, businesses, users, and local practices co-produced Europeanness.

At the 12th Tensions of Europe (ToE) Conference, we would like to explore and discuss what it means for European and non-European scholars to write ‘European’ histories of ‘technology’ in a pluriverse world. From such an engagement, we want to co-develop fresh ideas on how a European historiography of technology can inform and contribute to current agendas for inclusive and green transitions. In what ways do aspirations for equitable and inclusive relations intersect with legacies of the past?

This evokes questions about the role of migration, local knowledge, formal and informal networks, both within and beyond Europe. What are the legacies of Europe’s diverse historical trajectories and its influence on relationships within and beyond its borders? How did transnational dependencies and evolving relationships shape the current crises within and outside Europe? Which alternative perspectives on eco-modernist approaches to sustainability can help forge the agenda for a just and green transition?

Special attention will be paid to the following themes: (1) Infrastructures as drivers or obstacles to social and ecological changes. (2) Equality and equity for various societal groups involved and affected by technological changes in and beyond Europe. (3) Digital and other global network technologies in (re)shaping power, knowledge, production and consumption.

As a part of the Conference, a Summer School for early career scholars will precede it, co-organized with the ToE Early career scholar network. The Summer School includes discussing texts relevant for the current topic, research in progress with established researchers and an excursion.

The 12th Tensions of Europe Conference will be held at the campus of Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e). It will be organized by the Eindhoven History Lab (www.eindhovenhistorylab.nl/) part of Technology Innovation and Society research group of TU/e in collaboration with the 4TU History of Technology center (https://www.4tu.nl/history-of-technology/), uniting Delft University of Technology, Eindhoven University of Technology, the University of Twente, and Wageningen University & Research.

Welcome to Eindhoven in July 2026!

Program

Below you find a short overview of the program. A detailed program can be found here (forthcoming).

Wednesday July 8th
10.00 – 18.00 Registration
12.00 – 12.30 Opening of Conference
12.30 – 17.45 Parallel sessions
18.00 – 19.00 Keynote Presentation
19.00 – 20.30 Opening Reception
Thursday July 9th
9.00 – 12.15 Parallel sessions
12.15 – 12.45 My PhD in 10 minutes
13.30 – 15.00 Parallel sessions
15.15 –  16.15 Keynote Presentation
16.30 – 20.00 Excursions
Friday July 10th
9.00 – 12.15 Parallel sessions
12.15 – 12.45 ToE Open Management Meeting
12.45 -13.15 My PhD in 10 minutes
14.00 – 17-15 Parallel sessions
18.30 Social Event
Saturday July 11th
11.00-16.00 Day Excursion

Parallel sessions consist of Panel sessions, Individual papers, Making & Doing sessions, Micro Workshops and Book Podcast sessions.

Micro Workshop sessions are open to all participants, have pre-circulated papers. These can be found here (forthcoming).

Making & Doing sessions consist of historical work and experimental practices that are presented interactively.

Book Podcast sessions are live podcasts discussing recently published books. The podcasts will be shared through https://newbooksnetwork.com. If you want to participate and have a new book you want to discuss, mention this at registration.

Registration

Go to the online registration form 

Registration:

  • Early Bird registration Euro 225 from April 15th to May 20th 
  • Early Bird student registration Euro 150 from April 15th to May 20th
  • Regular registration Euro 275 from May 20th to June 20th
  • Regular student registration Euro 200 from May 20th to June 20th
  • Late registration fee Euro 325 from June 20th
  • Late student registration fee Euro 250 from June 20th

Excursions and Social Events

  • Opening reception (free)
  • Excursions (descriptions see below) – Thursday starting at 16.30
    • TU/e Campus tour (Euro 5)
    • Philips Museum Tour (Euro 10)
    • Regenerated Leather Works & Steam Engine in Oisterwijk by train (Euro 25)
    • Bike Tour – Vincent Van Gogh village Nuenen (25 euro)
  • Social Event: Party in Ketelhuis – Friday starting at 18.30 (Euro 30)
  • Day Excursion (Saturday)
    • Rietveld’s renewed De Ploeg factory in Bergeijk (Euro 35)

Tensions of Europe 2026 Cancellation Policy

Cancellation requests must be emailed to TOE2026@tue.nl.

  • Cancellations received on or before Monday 1 June 2026 will receive a full refund, minus a €50 processing fee.
  • Cancellations received between Tuesday 2 June and Monday 22 June 2026 will receive a 50% refund.
  • No refunds will be made for cancellations after Monday 22 June 2026.

You may cancel ticketed items (special events and tours) and receive a full refund if cancellation is received in writing by Monday 22 June 2026. No refunds will be given for ticketed item cancellations after Monday 22 June 2026.

Eindhoven

The Tensions of Europe Conference will take place in Eindhoven, the Netherlands, from 8–10 July 2026.

Eindhoven is located in the southern province of North Brabant and is widely known as the technological and design capital of the country.

Eindhoven is at the heart of the so called Brainport region—one of Europe’s leading innovation ecosystems—bringing together industry, research institutions, and education. The presence of Eindhoven University of Technology contributes to its strong focus on engineering, design, and applied sciences.

Unlike many historic Dutch cities, Eindhoven’s development is closely tied to its transformation in the 20th century into a major industrial and innovation hub. The city’s rapid growth was driven by Philips, which was founded in Eindhoven in 1891 and played a central role in shaping its economic and social landscape. Later, companies such as ASML further strengthened Eindhoven’s global position in high-tech industries.

Although much of the city was heavily damaged during World War II and subsequently rebuilt, Eindhoven has developed a distinctive modern character. It is particularly renowned for its creative and experimental spirit, exemplified by the annual Dutch Design Week, one of the largest design events in Northern Europe.

During the Tensions of Europe Conference, participants will have the opportunity to explore Eindhoven’s unique blend of industrial heritage, contemporary architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, as well as its surrounding Brabant landscape.

Image: The Philips Light-tower an Eindhoven icon. Source: Rosemoon (Wikimedia Commons)

Venue – Eindhoven University of Technology


The Tensions of Europe conference 2026 takes place at the campus Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e). The campus is situated at walking distance from Eindhoven Central railway station. The Conference will take place in the Atlas (main) building of the university.

A map of TU/e campus and information of getting there can be found here: https://www.tue.nl/en/our-university/tue-campus

Image: Atlas building of Eindhoven University of Technology. Source: Choinowski (Wikimedia Commons)