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The Applied Anthropology Network (AAN) is the main European platform dedicated to the exchange of information and experiences related to practical applications of anthropology and ethnography. The network enables a circular transfer of knowledge between academia, private and public sectors, NGOs, interest groups, students and other individuals. The network is part of the non-profit organisation European Association for Social Anthropologists (EASA).

We work as a collective to elevate the discipline of anthropology through a shared belief in its capacity to espouse a free, forward-thinking world whose actions are motivated by and benefit both society and planet.

Mission
Vision
Activities
  • Popularize the value of anthropological methods and theories for practical problem-solving in different areas and sectors.

  • Support the work of (applied) anthropologists, highlighting and discussing its value in both academic and non-academic venues.

  • Build bridges that foster new cross-disciplinary and cross-sectoral professional collaborations, and improve the presence of anthropologists in non-academic spaces.

  • Provide a networking platform for mutual support; facilitate job-matching, project opportunities, and guidance to the wider community.

  • A world, in which anthropology is a relevant discipline with significant weight in decision-making, policies, and design.

  • A world, in which anthropological theory and practice in society, business, industry and governance foster innovation based on people’s needs and socio-culturally differentiating factors.

  • A world, in which the presence of anthropologists in non-academic spaces is bold, sought-after and on the rise.

  • A world, in which relationships between academic spaces and fields of application (NGOs, companies, governments) are supportive and beneficial.

  • Organizing an annual symposium called “Why the World Needs Anthropologists” (WWNA)

  • Arranging panel discussions and other events about their themes

  • Hosting Satellite Events to foster national networking and discourse

  • Launching a Mentorship Program supporting those wanting to transition into more applied fields

  • Holding network meetings at WWNA and the biennial EASA conference

  • Supporting publication activities of the network members

Read AAN's Activity Reports here.