International Joint Conference

Enhancing Social Cohesion in Networked Societies through Communication, Media, Public Relations, and Sociology Perspectives

Conference on Media, Communications, and Sociology (COMICOS) 2026

&

10th Asia-Pacific Public Relations Research and Education Network (APPRREN) Conference

CALL FOR ABSTRACT

Yogyakarta, Indonesia
09-10 February 2026

Hosted by
Universitas Atma Jaya Yogyakarta (UAJY)

This conference is a platform for change.
Attend, network, and contribute to innovative solutions for our societal challenges.

About Us

The Conference on Media, Communications, and Sociology (COMICOS), is an annual academic forum organized by the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences at Universitas Atma Jaya Yogyakarta (FISIP UAJY). It serves as a dynamic platform that brings together academics, practitioners, and policymakers to engage in discussions on contemporary social science issues.

The Asia-Pacific Public Relations Research and Education Network (APPRREN) International Research Symposium provides a collaborative space for public relations scholars across the region. It facilitates networking, the exchange of ideas, discussions on emerging trends and challenges, and exploration of opportunities for academic and professional collaboration. The symposium aims to enhance our collective understanding of public relations education and research in the Asia-Pacific region.

For 2026, the joint conference of 9th COMICOS and 10th APPRREN will be hosted by Universitas Atma Jaya Yogyakarta.

Theme

Enhancing Social Cohesion in Networked Societies through Communication, Media, Public Relations, and Sociology Perspectives

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) have become global focus that aimed to promote diverse, inclusive, interconnected societies, and sustainable world. One of the key concepts capturing this collective spirit is social cohesion which is process of creating a community with common values and opportunities based on mutual trust, hope, and reciprocity (Fonseca et al., 2018). According to the OECD (2011), society fosters a sense of belonging, fosters trust, combats marginalization and exclusion, and provides its members with opportunities for upward mobility. However, experts are unsure about how to address unity and diversity and the thresholds involved. Promoting social cohesion involves developing communities where individuals may coexist despite their differences.

We now live in a network society where the majority of people use social media, which is largely driven by ICT. It can strengthen the sense of identity and promote communication among citizens. For particular communities, social media use has a lot of promise for promoting and preserving social cohesiveness (Stieglitz & Ross, 2022). On the other hand, it presents society with new challenges such as polarization and division. As such, social media can threaten social cohesion.

Alternative approaches to digital citizenship are being presented by a number of academics and practitioners. The ways in which people’s use of digital technology is changing citizenship should be revisited. The “glue” that holds society together and is essential for establishing democracy, peace, and development is social cohesiveness. This “glue” is composed of four essential parts: Social relationships, connectedness, equality, and a focus on the common good.

This conference helps us explore how social cohesion can accurately capture the diversity and multicultural character of contemporary society. Additionally, it offers a framework based on media, communication, sociology, and public relations perspectives in order to identify what drives social cohesiveness and can be used to promote it. Leading academics, educators, and practitioners come together at this event to discuss how we all can contribute to strengthen social cohesion, bridge divides, and create a more diverse, connected society.

Subthemes

1

Media and Technology's Role in Shaping Public Policy, Social Responsibility, and Social Change

Media plays a significant role in shaping social narratives and collective identities. It also serves as a powerful tool for promoting inclusivity and diversity

2

The Impact of Media on Social Movements and Advocacy​

Media serves as a critical tool for amplifying marginalized voices and advancing social justice, operating at the intersection of communication, public relations, and activism. Social media, in particular, both fosters social cohesion and contributes to division, depending on how it is engaged

3

Communication Strategies for Bridging Divided Community

Open and respectful communication is essential for fostering mutual understanding, particularly in diverse and multicultural settings. Effective strategies for intercultural communication, including the ability to navigate and overcome language barriers, play a crucial role in building inclusive and empathetic dialogue

4

Media Literacy (including AI) and its Role in Enhancing Social Cohesion

Enhancing critical thinking and media literacy helps reduce polarization by enabling individuals to identify reliable sources and resist misinformation. Media representations shape societal perceptions and group identities, while storytelling plays a powerful role in reinforcing social values and cohesion.

5

Communication for Conflict Resolution and Social Movement

Communication is key to conflict mediation and peacebuilding, with dialogue, empathy, and active listening enhancing social stability. Public Relations campaigns that prioritize transparency and social responsibility can further build trust and promote positive corporate impact.

6

Public Relations and Crisis Communication for Social Cohesion

Public Relations strategies play a crucial role in managing and recovering from social crises, such as protests or natural disasters, by facilitating clear communication, restoring public trust, and guiding community response efforts.

7

Education, Research, and the Future of Public Relations in Social Cohesion

The future of public relations in promoting social cohesion depends on education and research to develop inclusive strategies. By aligning with societal needs and evolving communication tools, Public Relations can foster trust, equality, and collective action

8

Ethics and Challenges in Public Relations for Social Cohesion

Promoting social cohesion in Public Relations involves ethical challenges, including authenticity, inclusivity, and balancing diverse interests. Professionals must communicate transparently and fairly, aiming to foster unity without compromising integrity or reinforcing inequality

9

The Role of Media in Shaping Shared Values for Equality, Equity, and Inclusivity

Media shapes collective consciousness by influencing perceptions of equality, equity, and inclusivity. Through its broad reach, both traditional and digital media can create, challenge, and transform societal norms and values.

10

Affectivity and Social Cohesion

Emotional connection and empathy, rooted in affectivity, are central to social cohesion. These bonds nurture a sense of trust, belonging, and solidarity, which are essential for building strong and unified communities.

11

Environmental Communication

Environmental communication can help the public and communities understand environmental challenges fostering a sense of shared purpose and uniting people from diverse backgrounds to address these issues. However, it can also lead to polarization or conflict. This panel welcomes presentations of research from the perspectives of strategic communication, media content, and media effects on environmental issue.

Speakers

Opening Remarks

Prof. Dr. Franz Magnis-Suseno

Driyarkara School of Philosophy

Keynote Speakers

Prof. Dr. Øyvind Ihlen

Department of Media and Communication, University of Oslo

Prof. Anne Gregory, Ph.D.

Emeritus Chair of Corporate Communication, Huddersfield Business School, University of Huddersfield

Prof. Gregoria Arum Yudarwati, Ph.D.

Communication Science Department, Universitas Atma Jaya Yogyakarta

PD. Dr. habil. Andreas Schwarz, Ph.D.

Institute for Media and Communication Studies (IfMK), Ilmenau University of Technology

Prof. Wayne Bailey

Head of the School of Education Strategic Lead for International in the School of Business, Education and Law, University of Huddersfield

Edwin Falcis Lineses, Ph.D.

Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Communication, De La Salle University-Dasmariñas (DLSU-D)

Marianne D. Sison, Ph.D.

FCPRA Founder & Chair Asia Pacific Public Relations Research & Education Network (APPRREN), Honorary University Fellow, RMIT University, Australia

Wahyu Dhyatmika, M.A.

Chief Executive Officer of Tempo Digital, Indonesia

Assoc. Prof. Estefanie R. Cortez, Ph.D.

Department of Political Economy, College of Political Science & Public Administration, Polytechnic University of the Philippines

Plenary Speakers

Agenda

Academic World-renowned Keynote Speaker

International Perspectives in Plenary Session

Parallel Session (Call for Papers)

Networking Gala DinneR

Academic Skill Workshop

Cultural Immersion​

International Proceeding & Journal Publication​

BOROBUDUR TOUR* (OPTIONAL)

Important Dates

28

APRIL

2025

–

1

oct

2025

1. Abstract Submission

2. Abstract Submission Deadline

1

Oct

2025

3. Acceptance Notification

30

Oct

2025

4. Early Bird Payment

1-30

nov

2025

5. Regular Payment

1-30

dec

2025

6. Full Paper Submission *

1

Nov

2025

–

16

Dec

2025

7. Conference Dates

9-10

Feb

2026

* Full Paper Submission is mandatory for authors who propose to publish their papers in our partner journals.

Registration

Call for Abstract

Guidelines on submission of abstract

  • Clearly indicate if the submission is a research abstract.
  • All submissions must include the author(s), their affiliations, and accurate contact details.
  • Structured abstracts should include:
    – Title of the research
    – Purpose of the study
    – Methodology used
    – Key findings
    – Implications for practice and theory
    – 3-5 Keywords
    – Maximum length: 300-500 words (excluding references)

Criteria for review abstract​

Originality

- The abstract presents an original idea, concept, perspective or argument to the field one of media, communications, sociology, and public relations.

- The abstract reflects an original research approach to the field one of media, communications, sociology, and public relations.

Contribution to the body of knowledge

- The abstract makes a valid and significant contribution to the field one of media, communications, sociology, and public relations.

- The abstract refers to recent and up to date knowledge in the field one of media, communications, sociology, and public relations.

Structure and presentation

- The abstract clearly defines the problem/message and the topic of the paper.

- The abstract clearly defines the methodology/research approach.

- The argument is presented in a coherent manner.

- The writing style is appropriate for academic/professional presentation.

Relevance

- The abstract clearly reflects relevance to the theme and sub-themes of ‘Enhancing Social Cohesion in Networked Societies through Communication, Media, Public Relations, and Sociology Perspectives’.

- The abstract topic will be of interest to researchers, educators, and practitioners of media, communications, sociology, and public relations.

Abstract Submission

Publication Opportunities

1. Abstract-Only Submission
Presenters who submit only an abstract are eligible for inclusion in the book program and will receive a certificate of participation.

2. Full-Paper Submission
Presenters who submit a full-paper are eligible for publication in SCOPUS-indexed journals, international journals, SINTA-accredited national journals, conference proceedings, or book programs. A certificate of participation will also be awarded.

Access journals:

Academic Publication Partners

Registration Payment *

Category

Schedule

Registration Fee

Presenter (early bird)

1 Nov – 30 Nov 2025

IDR 1.000.000/ 60 USD

Presenter (regular)

1 Des – 30 Dec 2025

IDR 1.300.000/ 77 USD

Presenter (student)

1 Nov – 30 Dec 2025

IDR 600.000/ 36 USD

Participant (non-student)

1 Nov – 30 Dec 2025

IDR 400.000/ 24 USD

Participant (student)

1 Nov – 30 Dec 2025

IDR 250.000/ 15 USD

TRANSFER TO:  BNI (Bank Negara Indonesia),  Swift code: BNINIDJAXXX

Account Name

Sherly Hindra Negoro

Account Number

1822591773

* Important Note

  • The payment is charged per person, whether as a participant or presenter.
  • For papers with multiple authors, all other co-authors attending the conference are required to register as presenters.
  • The conference registration fee covers conference activities only.
  • Any publication charges required by our partner journals are separate and are the full responsibility of the authors.

Facilities

Full day meeting

Gala Dinner

Seminar kit

Proceeding publication

Book Program

WIFI Access

Co-Host

This international joint conference is proudly co-hosted by a distinguished group of academic institutions whose collaborative spirit and dedication have been pivotal to its success. We extend our sincerest appreciation for their partnership.

Partners

We invite you to partner with us for the International Joint Conference: Enhancing Social Cohesion in Networked Societies through Communication, Media, Public Relations, and Sociology Perspectives. This conference offers a unique platform to connect with leading academics, researchers, and professionals in the field.

We offer various partnership packages tailored to meet your specific objectives. Contact us to explore how we can collaborate to create a mutually beneficial partnership.

University Partners

Sponsors

The International Joint Conference: Enhancing Social Cohesion in Networked Societies through Communication, Media, Public Relations, and Sociology Perspectives, invites you to become a sponsor. This conference provides a valuable opportunity to demonstrate your organization’s support for advancing knowledge and promoting dialogue on this critical issue. As a sponsor, you will receive prominent recognition and access to a diverse and influential audience.

We are open to discussing bespoke sponsorship packages to align with your specific goals. Join us in shaping the conversation on social cohesion in today’s interconnected world. Don’t hesitate to support the organization of this event by becoming an official sponsor. Contact us for sponsorship opportunities.

Contact

We look forward to receiving your submissions and engaging in meaningful discussions on the critical role of public relations in promoting social cohesion.

For further inquiries, please contact us, comicos@uajy.ac.id

Contact Person: Brahma +62 818 0339 6299

📍Teresa Building, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences,

Universitas Atma Jaya Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Jl. Babarsari No. 6 Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Instagram: @comicosuajy

Facebook: comicosuajy

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Prof. Dr. Franz Magnis-Suseno

Driyarkara School of Philosophy

Franz Magnis-Suseno, a prominent figure in Indonesian intellectual discourse, is widely recognized as a distinguished cultural observer, theologian, and philosopher.

Franz Magnis-Suseno serves as a permanent lecturer at the Driyarkara School of Philosophy (Sekolah Tinggi Filsafat Driyarkara) in Jakarta. His remarkable ability to comprehend local Indonesian culture and elaborate it through a philosophical lens is evident in influential books such as “Etika Jawa” (Javanese Ethics). He consistently engages with contemporary Indonesian issues, exploring themes of Political Ethics and Democracy in his ongoing response to the modern world.

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Prof. Dr. Øyvind Ihlen

Department of Media and Communication University of Oslo

Øyvind Ihlen is a professor at the University of Oslo, Norway. He has authored or co-authored over 170 articles, chapters, and books, including the edited volumes Public Relations and Social Theory (2018) and Handbook of Organizational Rhetoric and Communication (2018). He applies theories of rhetoric and sociology to risk & crisis communication and lobbying & interest group studies.

Ihlen has led two large cross-disciplinary research projects on the COVID-19 pandemic and is involved in the EU Horizon project PREPSHIELD, the COST network Alerthub, and the Crisis Communication Think Tank – Int
ernational (CCTT). He is a former President of the European Public Relations Education and Research Association (EUPRERA) and vice-chair of the Public Relations Division of the International Communication Association (ICA).

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Prof. Emeritus Anne Gregory, Ph.D.

Emeritus Chair of Corporate Communication, Huddersfield Business School University of Huddersfield

Dr. Anne Gregory is Professor Emeritus of Corporate Communication at the University of Huddersfield. An acknowledged expert on AI, strategic communication and evaluation, Anne has published over 150 academic papers and book chapters.

She is a former Chair of the Global Alliance, directing the worldwide Global Capability project. In 2024 she was awarded the European Public Relations Education and Research Association (EUPRERA) Distinguished Scholar Award and AMEC’s prestigious Don Bartholomew Award in recognition of her outstanding contribution to the measurement and evaluation industry. She currently works with Governments and NGOs on capability development.

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Prof. Gregoria Arum Yudarwati, Ph.D.

Department of Communication Science, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Atma Jaya Yogyakarta

Gregoria Arum Yudarwati is a Professor of Communication at Universitas Atma Jaya Yogyakarta (UAJY), Indonesia. She earned a Ph.D. in Communication from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) University, Australia. She is a visiting scholar at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, USA; Bournemouth University, UK; RMIT University, Australia; Université Catholique de Lille, France; and University of Huddersfield, UK.

Prof. Yudarwati’s expertise lies in the fields of communication, public relations, CSR, and sustainability. She is a prolific researcher and author whose works have been published in various reputable journals, such as Public Relations Review, Journal of Communication Management, and CSR and Environmental Management Journal. In 2024, she co-authored book: “Strategic Participatory Communication and Development: Engagement and Empowerment”, a book that delves into strategic participatory communication frameworks and is published by Routledge, UK. Most of her research projects have also been recognized and supported by international funders, including Australian Government (1999, 2005, and 2015), British Council, UK (2014 and 2016), Arthur W. Page Center, USA (2015, 2021, and 2022), the Pulitzer Center, USA (2022), and the University of Huddersfield, UK (2025).

Her research works consistently contribute to a deeper understanding of communication’s role in social change and sustainability initiatives within the Indonesian context.

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PD. Dr. Habil. Andreas Schwarz, Ph.D.

Institute for Media and Communication Studies (IfMK), Ilmenau University of Technology

PD. Dr. habil. Andreas Schwarz, Ph.D. (2009), is the co-director of the International Crisis Communication Research Group at the Institute for Media and Communication Studies (IfMK) at Ilmenau University of Technology. He was the founding chair of the Risk and Crisis Communication Section of the European Communication Research and Education Association (ECREA) from 2011 to 2018.

His research and teaching centers on risk and crisis communication, communication of technology, science communication, and public relations (PR). He has published in scientific journals such as Risk Analysis, Science Communication, Health Communication, the Journal of Risk Research, the International Journal of Contingencies and Crisis Management, Public Relations Review, and Corporate Communications, among others. He is the editor of the Handbook of International Crisis and Risk Communication Research (Wiley, 2016/2025).

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Prof. Wayne Bailey

Head of the School of Education Strategic Lead for International in the School of Business, Education and Law University of Huddersfield

Professor Wayne Bailey is the Head of the School of Education and the Strategic Lead for International in the School of Business, Education, and Law. He began his teaching career at a prominent Further Education college, where he specialised in teacher education programmes, working to equip future educators with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in diverse learning environments. His research interests span various aspects of teaching and learning, with a strong focus on the internationalisation agenda and its transformative impact on pedagogy and curriculum development within the Higher Education sector.

Professor Bailey has a particular interest in Vocational Education and Training (VET) systems, particularly China’s rapidly evolving VET sector, which plays a critical role in addressing workforce demands and fostering innovation. His work has explored how international best practices in VET can inform and enhance educational strategies. Additionally, he is deeply engaged with widening participation initiatives, placing significant emphasis on how local culture and socioeconomic factors influence decision-making processes regarding access to Higher Education

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Edwin Falcis Lineses, Ph.D.

Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Communication, De La Salle University-Dasmariñas (DLSU-D)

Edwin F. Lineses serves as the Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Communication and is a faculty member in the Social Sciences Department. He earned degrees from the University of the Philippines. As a licensed professional teacher, he has pursued an academic career since 1997, teaching Politics, Anthropology, Sociology, and general Social Sciences. As a researcher and consultant for externally funded studies, his work often engaged with social issues, often from socio-economic, political, and environmental perspectives.

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Marianne D. Sison, Ph.D.

FCPRA Founder & Chair Asia Pacific Public Relations Research & Education Network (APPRREN) Honorary University Fellow RMIT University Australia

Dr Marianne D. Sison is founder and chair of the Asia Pacific Public Relations Research and Education Network (APPRREN). She is an Honorary University Fellow at RMIT University in Melbourne and a Fellow of the Communication and Public Relations Association of Australia (CPRA).

Marianne’s research interests include intercultural communication, cultural diversity, and public relations for social change. A Marianne currently offers research and training consultancy, and mentors young academics and professionals.

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Wahyu Dhyatmika, M.A.

Chief Executive Officer of Tempo Digital, Indonesia

Wahyu Dhyatmika, M.A. is the Chief Executive Officer of Tempo Digital. He is also the Chairperson of the Indonesian Cyber Media Association (AMSI), an organization for digital media publishers in Indonesia.

He is the former Editor in Chief of Tempo Magazine and is a member of the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists. He earned his MA in International Journalism from the University of Westminster (UK) and has completed a Fellowship at the Nieman Foundation for Journalism at Harvard University.

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Assoc. Prof. Estefanie R. Cortez, Ph.D.

Department of Political Economy, College of Political Science & Public Administration, Polytechnic University of the Philippines

Estefanie R. Cortez, Ph.D. is a faculty member at the College of Science and Public Administration’s Department of Political Economy and serves as a visiting lecturer at Universitas Muhammadiyah Makassar. Recently collaborating on Media and Information Literacy initiatives across the Asia-Pacific, she explores how social inclusivity, political economy and media, and local economic development intersect to build more equitable and resilient communities. Bringing both academic insight and practical experience, Dr. Cortez works to bridge policy, public discourse, and on-the-ground realities.

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Academic Skill Workshop

1. Study preparation workshop
Speaker: Prof. Øyvind Ihlen
Designed to equip participants with effective strategies for preparing their study proposals. Attendees will learn how to plan their study schedules, set clear goals, apply for scholarship funding, and engage in activities that build confidence and skills needed to pursue advanced master’s or doctoral degrees.

2. Academic writing journal
Speaker: Prof. Anne Gregory, Ph.D.
This workshop is designed to help participants strengthen their scholarly writing skills. It will cover key aspects of academic writing, such as selecting a topic, conducting a literature review, designing research, drafting manuscripts, proper referencing, and strategies for publication. Furthermore, to equip participants with the knowledge and practical skills to create clear, coherent, and impactful academic papers that meet the standards of reputable journals.

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Cultural Immersion​

This session is designed to foster a profound understanding and appreciation of local cultural uniqueness, enrich personal perspectives, and enhance intercultural competence.

Participants will deeply engage in the theory and practice of a Mataram philosophical archery, called Jemparingan. It is performed by sitting cross-legged and positioning the gandewa (bow) vertically slightly obliquely/diagonally in front of the abdomen so that the arrow shot is not only based on eyesight, but more on feeling. This cultural immersion collaborates with Pendopo Jemparingan, the Special Region of Yogyakarta, Indonesia. It is limited for 20 participants.

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Borobudur Tour*

An optional post-conference tour of Borobudur Temple will be offered to all participants. The conference registration fee does not include this tour, and a separate fee will be charged for those wishing to join. Further details regarding tour and registration fees will be provided soon.

Borobudur is one of the world’s largest Buddhist temples, a stunning testament to human history and architectural genius. Built in the 8th and 9th centuries in Central Java by the Sailendra Dynasty, this magnificent temple was designed as a sacred pilgrimage site.

Its grandeur lies in its unique design: a massive step pyramid with nine stacked platforms and a stupa at its center, which, when viewed from above, form a giant mandala. The temple walls are adorned with thousands of intricate relief panels depicting the life and teachings of the Buddha, constituting the largest and most comprehensive collection of Buddhist reliefs in the world.

Thanks to a massive restoration project led by the Indonesian government and UNESCO in the 1970s, this architectural masterpiece was restored to its former glory. Today, Borobudur is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and recognized as one of the wonders of the world.