The Centre for Gender and Development Studies (CGDS), University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Unit, proposes to embark on a comprehensive research initiative that investigates the influence of gender norms, expectations, behaviours, and the associated power relations, on sexuality and the implications for HIV/AIDS risk and prevention in Trinidad and Tobago. The Centre will therefore host a regional symposium from March 10 to 13, 2004 in Trinidad and Tobago. This symposium will launch the research initiative by convening regional experts to identify and consolidate existing and ongoing research on gender, sexuality and HIV/AIDS in the Caribbean; to identify the gaps in this research; and to give direction for future research in this field. Selected symposium papers will be included in an edited book that will represent the cutting-edge in research on gender, sexuality and HIV/AIDS.
Symposium sub-themes may include: Gender Expectations Within Sexual Relationships; Belief Systems and Sexuality; Sexual Practices, Behaviours, and Taboos; Youth Sexualities; Same Sex and Alternative Sexualities; Sexual-Economic Exchange; Violence, Power, and Control; Domestic Violence; Sexual Coercion, Violence and Incest; Fertility, Sexuality, and the Construction of Masculinity and Femininity. While most of the sessions will focus on the Caribbean, one session will be devoted to international perspectives. The deadline for submission of abstracts of 500-1500 words is 15 December 2003. Prospective speakers will be notified of acceptance by January 15, 2004. Deadline for submission of final papers is February 28, 2004. For further information contact the Centre for Gender & Development Studies, University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad & Tobago, Telephone: 868-662-2002 ext. 3573 or email: gender@cgds.uwi.tt or visit the website at www.uwi.tt/cgds