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.

References

Fonseca, X., Lukosch, S., & Brazier, F. (2019). Social cohesion revisited: a new denition and how to characterize it. Innovation: The European journal of social science research, 32(2), 231-253. https://doi.org/10.1080/13511610.2018.1497480.

OECD (2011), Perspectives on Global Development 2012: Social Cohesion in a Shifting World, OECD Publishing, Paris, https://doi.org/10.1787/persp_glob_dev-2012-en.

Stieglitz, S., & Ross, B. (2022). The Impact of Social Media on Social Cohesion: A Double-Edged Sword. Media and Communication, 10(2), 104-107. https://doi.org/10.17645/mac.v10i2.5792.

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.

Speakers

Speaker 1

to be announced later

Speaker 2

to be announced later

Speaker 3

to be announced later

Speaker 4

to be announced later

Speaker 5

to be announced later

Speaker 6

to be announced later

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​

Important Dates

Abstract Submission Deadline

1

Oct

2025

Acceptance Notification

30

Oct

2025

Early Bird
Registration Period

1-30

nov

2025

Regular
Registration Period

1-30

dec

2025

Full Paper Submission

1

Nov

2025

–

16

Dec

2025

Conference Date

9-10

feb

2026

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. 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.

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

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

Facilities

Full day meeting

Gala Dinner

Seminar kit

Proceeding publication

Book Program

WIFI Access

Partner

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.

Sponsor

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

📍Teresa Building, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences,

Universitas Atma Jaya Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Jl. Babarsari No. 6 Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Instagram: @comicosuajy

Facebook: comicosuajy