The Flemish Medievalist Association (Vlaamse Werkgroep Mediëvistiek, VWM) is an informal organisation uniting medieval scholars from various disciplines. Most of its members are based at Flemish universities and heritage organisations. Anyone with an interest in medieval studies may become a member.
Aims
The main aim of the VWM is to support medieval studies and promote the multidisciplinary collaboration of medievalists in Flanders and beyond. With this purpose, the VWM organises events and disseminates information.
Each year, the VWM organises approximately three activities. Two of them are informal excursions to an exhibition, an interesting historical site or a heritage institution with experts giving explanation and tours. A third event is aimed at giving young postgraduates the opportunity to meet fellows from the other universitites and to present their research to others, during our ‘Doctorandidag‘.
Besides our own activities, the VWM is involved in organising the annual ‘Mediëvistendag‘, together with the Dutch Research School for Medieval Studies. Every few years, the VWM organises an informal excursion with our French-speaking colleagues from the Réseau des médiévistes belges de langue française.
The language of these activities and the possibilities for non-Dutch speakers will always be specified in the communication about our activities.
In addition to maintaining the newsletter, the VWM keeps its members informed by distributing announcements, calls and other relevant news to the members by the website and through social media.
Organisation
VWM is managed by two ‘secretaries’, responsible for the day-to-day operation of the Working Group and the organisation of activities. They also serve to maintain the VWM’s contacts and respond to questions and proposals. The VWM is headed by an advisory board formed by experienced medievalists and a representation of postgraduate students.