AGEISM AMONG US: INVISIBLE PREJUDICES, TANGIBLE CONSEQUENCES
Date of the event: Wednesday 11th of June 2025
Place of the event: Oton Župančič library
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speaker:
Dr. Otto Gerdina
Abstract:
On Wednesday, 11 June 2025 sociologist Dr Otto Gerdina gave a lecture “Ageism Among Us: Invisible Prejudices, Tangible Consequences” in Oton Župančič Library. The event drew attention to the fact that ageism is one of the most widespread, yet least recognised forms of discrimination in contemporary society. In a world where youth is seen as an ideal and old age as a burden, older people are often portrayed as less capable, less worthy or even as an obstacle to progress. Such beliefs are not only erroneous, but have real and measurable consequences: they have been shown to shorten life, impair mental and physical health and undermine intergenerational solidarity.
Key words: ageism, concept, consequences
YOUTHISM, AGEISM AND INTERGENERATIONAL INTEGRATION ON THE WAY TO WORK
Date of the event: Thursday 5th of June 2025
Place of the event: Center Rog
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
Mitja Blažič
Mojca Žerak
Ana Pleško
dr. Mirjana Ule
Abstract:
On Thursday, 5 June, a panel discussion “Career without age: from prejudice to opportunity” took place at the Rog Centre, within the framework of the project “Youthism, ageism and intergenerational integration on the path to work”. The projecet was led by Prof. Dr. Alenka Švab from the Faculty of Social Sciences, with OPRO participating as a partner organisation. The event highlighted the situation of young people, critically evaluated existing practices to help young people and discussed how it is possible to improve the situation of young people through peer and intergenerational networking. The panelists highlighted that youthism is a pressing topics in need of further research.
Key words: youngism, ageism, intergenrational integration
UNIVERSAL BASIC SERVICES: BUILDING BLOCKS FOR AN EQUAL AND SUSTAINABLE SOCIETY
Date of the event: Thursday 21st of November 2024
Place of the event: Oton Župančič library
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
dr. Srečo Dragoš
dr. Sinja Gerdina
Taj Zavodnik
Abstract:
On Thursday, 21 November 2024, a panel discussion on how the provision of necessary and sufficient public services can contribute to reducing social inequalities, strengthening economic security and sustainable development was heald at Oton Župančič Library. The event, organised in cooperation with the Sociology of Time Association, brought together three distinguished experts: sociologist and social worker Dr. Sreč Dragoš, sociologist and communication scientist Dr. Sinja Gerdina, and environmental and spatial sociologist Taj Zavodnik.
Key words: universal basic services, equality, sustainable development
OLD AGE THROUGH THE EYES OF SIMONE DE BEAUVOIR
Date of the event: Tuesday, 1st of October 2024
Place of the event: Cankarjev dom
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
Damir Josipovič
Metka Mencin
Mirjana Ule
Abstract:
On the International Day of the Older Persons, Tuesday 1 October 2024, at Cankarjev dom, we held a discussion with Dr. Mirjana N. Ule, Dr. Metka Mencin and Dr Damir Josipovič. The discussion focused on themes highlighted by Simone de Beauvoir in her essay “Old Age” more than fifty years ago, which have remained largely unexplored to this day.
Key words: old age, Simone de Beauvoir, inequality
STRATEGIES FOR A DEMOCRATIC FUTURE: REALISING REALISTIC UTOPIAS
Date of the event: Saturday, 8th of June 2024
Place of the event: garden of Lili Novy
Type of the event: conversation
Speaker:
Prof. Dr. Tanja Rener
Abstract:
On Saturday, 8 June 2024, we hosted Prof. Dr. Tanja Rener in the garden of Lili Novy. We spoke with Dr. Rener about real utopias, strategies to undermine capitalism and the creation of a collective actor. The starting point of the conversation, which took place under the auspices of the 29th Slovenian Book Fair, was Eric O. Wright’s book How to be an Anti-Capitalist in the 21st Century.
Key words: utopias, capitalism, collective actor
THE ARCHITECTURE OF WEALTH: LAW, CAPITAL AND THE HIDDEN DRIVERS OF INEQUALITY
Date of the event: Friday, 7th of June 2024
Place of the event: Pritličje
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
dr. Barbara Rajgelj
dr. Marko Hočevar
Abstract:
On Friday, 7 June 2024, a discussion on Katharina Pistor’s book Coded Capital took place in the Pritličje under the auspices of the 29th Slovenian Book Fair. With docent dr. Barbara Rajgelj and docent dr. Marko Hočevar, we explored how capital rewards lawyers for finding ways to circumvent regulations and maintain competitive advantages, which contributes to wealth inequalities. The potential to use law to achieve broader societal goals remains largely out of reach for the vast majority.
Key words: law, capitalism, inequality
GEROTRANSCENDENCE IN SLOVENIA: BETWEEN THEORY AND PRACTICE
Date of the event: Thursday, 6th of June 2024
Place of the event: Oton Župančič Library
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
mag. Barbara Purkart
Dr Urša Bratun
Abstract:
On Thursday, 6 June 2024, OPRO hosted a well-attended panel discussion entitled Gerotranscendence in Slovenia: between theory and practice at the Oton Župančič Library. The discussion on gerotranscendence in Slovenia was attended by the Assistant Director of the Vič Rudnik Senior Citizens’ Home, mag. Barbara Purkart, and Dr Urša Bratun, assistant professor at the University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Medicine. The starting point for the discussion were the results of a survey on the prevalence of gerotranscendence in Slovenia.
Key words: gerotranscendence, Slovenia
TRANSCENDING THE LIMITS: SCIENTIFIC AND SUBJECTIVE VIEWS ON AGEING WELL
Date of the event: Sunday, 26h of May 2024, at 16:00
Place of the event: Ljubljana Town Hall
Type of the event: lecture
Speaker:
dr. Otto Gerdina
Abstract:
On Sunday 26 May, the OPRO Institute, in cooperation with the Association for Assistance in the Third Age of Life, co-organised a music and discussion event where sociologist Dr Otto Gerdina presented some of the most important social gerontological findings and the theory of gerotranscendence through an analysis of the short story “The Unseemly Old Lady” by Bertolt Brecht.
Key words: ageing well, gerotranscendence, social gerontology
OLD-AGE AS AN OPPORTUNITY: THE HIDDEN POTENTIAL FOR PERSONAL GROWTH IN THE SECOND HALF OF LIFE
Date of the event: Thursday, 25th of April 2024, at 18:00
Place of the event: Oton Župančič Library
Type of the event: discussion
Speaker:
mag. Miran Možina, dr. med.
Abstract:
On 25 April 2024, OPRO hosted a discussion at the Oton Župančič Library with Dr Miran Možina, a psychiatrist and psychotherapist, about the potential benefits of ageing that go beyond the conventional stereotypes. He highlighted the fact that old age can be seen as a period of growth and development for individuals.
Key words: psychosocial development, old age, gerotranscendence
THE DIFFERENT EXPRESSIONS OF AGEISM: BETWEEN MARGINALITY AND THE PRIVILEGE OF OLD AGE
Date of the event: Thursday, 18th of January 2024, at 19:30
Place of the event: Cankarjev dom
Type of the event: lecture
Lecturer:
dr. Otto Gerdina
Abstract:
On Thursday, 18 January 2024, Dr Otto Gerdina from the OPRO Institute gave a lecture on the historical forms of ageism in the Alma Karlin Hall at Cankarjev dom as part of the series On the Phenomenon of Old Age. The lecture was based on the use of the stereotype content model developed by Amy Cuddy and Susan Fiske to trace historical changes in the manifestations of ageism.
Key words: stereotype content model, ageism, social history of old age
AGE POVERTY IN SLOVENIA: AN INDIVIDUAL RESPONSIBILITY OR A SOCIAL PROBLEM?
Date of the event: Thursday, 7th of December 2023, at 18:00
Place of the event: Oton Župančič’s Library
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
dr. Vesna Leskošek
dr. Barbara Lužar
dr. Majda Černič Istenič
Abstract:
On Thursday, 7 December, a round table discussion was held at the Oton Zupančič Library, organised by the Opro Institute and the Sociology of Time Section of the Slovenian Sociological Association, with the participation of sociologists Dr Vesna Leskošek, Dr Majda Černič Istenič and Dr Barbara Lužar. The debate focused on the structural causes of poverty in old age in both urban and rural areas, and discussed the increasingly neoliberal policies to reduce poverty. We also addressed the question of why the risk of poverty is higher among older women and how it is increasing among older men.
Key words: old-age poverty, social policy, gender inequalities
AGEISM: A PROBLEM ON BOTH SIDES OF THE AGE SPECTRUM
Date of the event: Thursday, 23th of November 2023, at 18:00
Place of the event: Oton Župančič Library
Type of the event: lectures
Speakers:
Dr. Otto Gerdina
Dr. Mirjana Nastran Ule
Abstract: On the 23rd of November 2023, the Otona Župančič Library hosted the final event of the project Ageism: a problem on both sides of the age spectrum, which we at OPRO have been co-creating for the last six months with the Young Dragons. The project was based on a recent report by the World Health Organisation, which recognised ageism as a global problem and highlighted that any age group can be a victim of ageism, not just the older people. In his opening address, sociologist Dr. Otto Gerdina pointed out that, unlike the ageism experienced by older people, there is currently no comprehensive theory of ageism that is directed towards young people. In her lecture, social psychologist Dr. Mirjana Nastran Ule pointed out that in recent decades, with the rise of neoliberal ideology, both young and older people have become excluded from the dominant processes in society and the social roles that give individuals social power and authority. The event concluded with the screening of the film Koliko pa ti šteješ? (How Much Do You Count?), created by Julija Mihovec, Maša Maruša Bregar, Veronika Predovnik, Kaja Rakušček and Hana Barši Palmič under the mentorship of Mark Džamastagič and Dr. Otto Gerdina.
Key Words: ageism, project, film
POPULATION AGEING AND LONG-TERM CARE: A SOCIETAL SHIFT IN THE NEEDS FOR CARE
Date of the event: Thursday, 19th of October 2023, at 17:00
Place of the event: Scientific Research Centre Koper
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
Simon Maljevac
Lidija Jerkič
Tilen Božič
Vanda Hlaj
Abstract: On 19th of October 2023, OPRO in collaboration with the Sociology of Time Section of the Slovenian Sociological Society co-organised a round table “Population Ageing and Long-Term Care: Societal Shift in Care Needs” at the Scientific Research Centre Koper.
The panel was structured around the idea that a well-thought-out and sustainable long-term care system helps people to stay healthy and independent for as long as possible, supports informal carers as well as paid workers, enforces high standards and limits profits. All of this can go a long way to mitigating the future consequences of the various inequalities that are evident between different categories of older people, especially in terms of who can and how well they can function autonomously.
Key Words: population ageing, longterm-care act, resources
TOWARDS A RESPECTFUL WAY OF ADDRESSING OLDER PEOPLE – THE PROFESSION SHOULD APPROACH THE PEOPLE
Date of the event: Thursday, 28th of September 2023, at 12:30
Place of the event: Cankarjev dom
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
Aleš Kenda
Darinka Klemenc
Dr. Marko Snoj
Miranda Vrh
Monika Ažman
Nina Lenardič
Dr. Otto Gerdina
Abstract: On 28 September 2023, OPRO took part in the round table For Respectful Addressing of the Older People, which took place as part of the 23rd Festival for the Third Age at Cankarjev dom.
Respectful naming of the 65+ population was discussed. The debate polarised around the view that a) older people know best what they want to be called and that the only acceptable term for them is older people, and the view that b) introducing softer terminology in the light of the widespread neoliberalisation of old age endangers age-based social security. OPRO has been pointing out the latter for several years and has been advocating for the non-euphemistic use of the term old people.
Key Words: symbolism, ageism, language
MOVING FORWARD WITHOUT PREJUDICE: HOW TO FIGHT AGE DISCRIMINATION IN ALL AGE GROUPS
Date of the event: Wednesday, 7th of June 2023, at 18:00
Place of the event: Oton Župančič Library
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
Dr. Mateja Sedmak
Mitja Blažič
Dr. Tina Bilban
Abstract: On Wednesday 7th of June, a panel discussion entitled “Moving Forward without Prejudice: How to fight age discrimination in all age groups” was held at Oton Župančič Library. The discussion, moderated by Otto Gerdina, was attended by Mitja Blažič, Assistant to the Advocate for the Principle of Equality, Tina Bilban, philosopher and literary critic, and Mateja Sedmak, sociologist. The debate was based on the thesis that ageism – unequal treatment on the basis of age that causes harm to individuals – is more widespread in Europe than, for example, discrimination on the basis of gender or race.
Key Words: ageism, youthism, prejudice
AGEING SOCIETY AND PENSION SYSTEMS
Date of the event: Thursday, 18th of May 2023, at 17:00
Place of the event: Oton Župančič Library
Type of the event: conference
Speakers:
Dr. Jana Javornik
Dr. Vesna Leskošek
Frančiška Ćetković
Abstract: On Thursday, the 18th of May, at the Oton Župančič Library, a conference on Ageing Society and Pension Systems took place. The event started with a lecture by Jana Javornik, PhD, research fellow in labour relations and public policy at the University of Leeds, who explained how the UK, Sweden, Canada and Japan are dealing with labour shortages, ageing populations, migration, generational change and pension systems. She showed that ageing societies are the result of complex social processes and not the isolated problem of one demographic population. A panel discussion followed in which, in addition to Jana Javornik, the other participants were Frančiška Ćetković, president of the Slovenian Pensioners’ Trade Union, and Vesna Leskošek PhD, a lecturer in social work at the University of Ljubljana. The participants discussed how the pension system has changed during Slovenia’s independence and what we need to pay attention to in the upcoming reforms.
Key Words: ageing of the population, pension system, welfare
UNIVERSAL PENSIONS AS A NECESSARY SOCIAL INNOVATION OF THE 20TH CENTURY
Date of the event: Thursday, 5th of April 2023, at 18:00
Place of the event: Oton Župančič Library
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
Dr. Dragica Čeč
Dr. Dunja Dobaja
Dr. Meta Remec
Abstract: On Thursday, 5 April 2023, a discussion took place at the Oton Župančič Library on the situation of older people before the first universal pension systems and the importance of introducing a universal pension system as a key element of the welfare state. The debate was attended by three historians Dr Dragica Čeč and Dr Dunja Dobaja and Dr Meta Remec.
Key words: history, old age, social security
HOW LAW CREATES WEALTH AND INEQUALITY
Date of the event: Thursday, 26th of January 2023, at 18:00
Place of the event: Oton Župančič Library
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
Otto Gerdina
dr. Vlado Dimovski
mag. Janko Arah
dr. Tibor Rutar
Abstract: On Thursday, 26 January 2023, the Oton Župančič Library hosted a panel discussion How Law Creates Wealth and Inequality. The panellists were economist Dr Vlado Dimovski, lawyer Mag. Janko Arah and sociologist Dr Tibor Rutar. The starting point for the discussion was Katharina Pistor’s book The Code of Capital, recently published in Slovenian translation by OPRO. The work shows how legal instruments, through the use of concepts and laws, work to give assets properties that privilege its owner.
Key words: law, wealth, inequality
CUT OFF FROM SOCIETY. CUT OFF FROM THE MEDIA. AND VICE VERSA.
NEWSPAPER IMAGES OF OLD AGE IN SLOVENIAN DAILY NEWSPAPERS
Date of the event: Thursday, 8th of December 2022, at 18:00
Place of the event: Oton Župančič Library
Type of the event: lecture
Speakers:
Otto Gerdina
Abstract: On Thursday, 8th December 2022, sociologist Otto Gerdina gave a lecture on newspaper images of old age in Slovenia at the Oton Župančič Library. The key finding was that when reporting on old age, newspaper writers resort to normalisation, homogenisation and othering, which inadvertently reinforce the privileged position of the middle-aged. By normalising, i.e. promoting normative standards on ageing, and homogenising and othering all those who do not follow these standards, they drive the older people to the margins of society.
Key words: media representations, old age, normalisation, homogenization, othering
THE ROLE OF DEATH IN EVERYDAY LIFE
Date of the event: Monday, 21st of November 2022, at 18:00
Place of the event: Oton Župančič Library
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
dr. Mirjana Nastran Ule
mag. Miran Možina, dr. med.
dr. Sinja Čož
Abstract: On Monday, 21 November 2022, a panel discussion was held at the Oton Župančič Library, where social psychologist Dr Mirjana Ule, psychiatrist and psychotherapist Mag. Miran Možina, MD, and sociologist Dr Sinja Čož discussed the role of death in everyday life.
The discussion was based on the cultural context of contemporary Western societies, where individualisation, the cult of youth, consumption, productivity, profit maximisation, etc. are promoted. This context pushes questions about the end of life into late old age. This gives people an illusory sense of immortality, which protects them from the reality of death, while at the same time reinforcing the taboo of death, which often makes us feel lost and helpless in the face of death.
Key words: death, everyday life, Western culture
FROM COMPASIONATE TO HOSTILE AGEISM
Date of the event: Thursday, 19th of May 2022, at 18:00
Place of the event: Oton Župančič Library
Type of the event: lecture
Speakers:
Otto Gerdina
Abstract: On Thursday, May 19 OPRO hosted a lecture titeled From Compassionate to Hostile Ageism. Sociologist and director of the OPRO, Otto Gerdina, pointed out that ageism is a form of discrimination that justifies and perpetuates inequalities between social groups of different ages. He explained that caring for the older people was seen as fair compensation for work and past merits and a way of resolving the uncertainty and suffering associated with the last phase of life up to the 1970s. From that point on, the neoliberal ideology soughts to reinterpret old age social security as unjustified, as the privilege of a relatively healthy, well-situated, selfish, and politically strong group of older people, thus spreading hostile old age.
Key words: ageism, social history of ageing, neoliberalism
INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY: BETWEEN PRIVATE PROPERTY AND PUBLIC SERVICES
Date of the event: Thursday, 14th of April 2022, at 18:00
Place of the event: Oton Župančič Library
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
Arian Debeljak
dr. Slavko Splichal
Filip Dobranić
Abstract: On Thursday, April 14th, OPRO hosted a panel discussion on information and communication technologies as universal basic services. The key premise of the conversation was that the public good should be recognized in information and communication technology, and something that benefits everyone in access to it. Speakers were mr. Arian Debeljak, Head of the Department for Digitization in the Minicipality of Ljubljana, dr. Slavko Splichal, a renowned Slovenian communication scientist, professor at the Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ljubljana and a member of the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts, and Filip Dobranić, national champion in computer programming and collaborator at the Institute for Other Issues Today is a new day.
Key words: information and communication technologies, universal basic income, Slovenian case
HOUSING INEQUALITY: FROM THE PRIVILEGE OF THE FEW TO A UNIVERSAL BASIC SERVICE
Date of the event: Wednesday, 23rd of March 2022, at 18:00
Place of the event: Oton Župančič Library
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
Sašo Rink
Klemen Ploštajner
dr. Miloš Kosec
Abstract: On the 23rd of March 2022 we organised a panel discussion with Sašo Rink from the Public Housing Fund of the Municipality of Ljubljana, Klemen Ploštajner from the Faculty of Social Sciences and dr. Miloš Kosec from the Museum of Architecture and Design. We discussed what are the current housing issues in Ljubljana, how to concretely increase the accessibility of housing and looked at examples of good practice.
Key words: housing, universal basic income, Slovenian case
PALLIATIVE CARE AS A UNIVERSAL BASIC SERVICE
Date of the event: Monday, 21st of February 2022, at 18:00
Place of the event: Oton Župančič Library
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
dr. Maja Ebert Moltara
dr. Erika Zelko
Barbara Purkart
Abstract: On Monday, February 21st, 2022, dr. Maja Ebert Moltara from the Ljubljana Oncology Institute, Department of Acute Palliative Care, dr. Erika Zelko from the Medical Faculty in Linz and the leader in the field of palliative care within the LAST AID program, and mag. Barbara Purkart, social pedagogue and assistant director at DSO Ljubljana Vič-Rudnik discussed palliative care in Slovenia, its regulation, and unresolved controversies.
Key words: palliative care, universal basic services, Slovenian case
ABOUT HANDICAP AND SEXUALITY
Date of the event: Thursday, 20th January 2022, at 18:00
Place of the event: Trubarjeva hiša literatura
Type of the event: film projection and disscussion
Speakers:
Teja Klinar
Jaka Sotlar
Abstract: On Thursday, 20th of January OPRO institute organised screeinng of the film In Search of a Happy Ending. The documentary is about Štefan, a disabled person who faces many problems, most notably a lack of sex life. After the screening, we talked with the author of the film Teja Klinar and sexologist and psychotherapist Jak Sotlar about sexuality as one of the basic human needs, which is rarely recognized, often misunderstood and often unattainable in people with disabilities.
Key words: sexuality, disability, taboo
LONG-TERM CARE AS A UNIVERSAL BASIC SERVICE
Date of the event: Wednesday, 1th December 2021, at 18:00
Place of the event: event was organized nline
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
Biserka Marolt Meden
dr. Majda Hrženjak
Nataša Gadnik
Abstract: On Wednesday, 1 December at 18:00, the OPRO institute organized a panel discussion titeled Long-term care as a universal basic service. The panelists were Biserka Marolt Meden (Srebrna nit), dr. Majda Hrženjak (Mirovni inštitut) and Nataša Gadnik (Društvo Po-Moč). During the conversation, the experts explained why long-term care should be perceived as a universal basic service and outlined what kind of long-term care arrangements thepeople would need to live in an egalitarian and long-lived society.
Key words: longterm care, universal basic services, legislation
PUBLIC PASSENGER TRANSPORT AS A UNIVERSAL BASIC SERVICE?
THE CASE OF LJUBLJANA
Date of the event: Thursday, 4th November 2021, at 18:00
Place of the event: Oton Župančič Library
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
Damjan Kregar
Tomaž Gorenc
Abstract: On Thursday, November 4, 2021, we talked with Tomaž Gorenc, director of the Institute of Environment and Health, and Damjan Kregar, head of the Transport Department of Ljubljana Passenger Transport, about mobility as a universal basic service. Universal basic services mean that people in welfare states receive, in addition to money, virtual income in the form of public services. We were interested in whether public transportation could be free, well regulated, reliable and connected?
Key words: moblility, UBS, welfare state
UNIVERSAL BASIC SERVICES
Date of the event: Tuesday, 5th October 2021, at 18:00
Place of the event: Oton Župančič Library
Type of the event: book presentation
Speakers:
dr. Srečo Dragoš
dr. Tamara Pavasović Trošt
Abstract: On Tuesday, 5th October 2021, a presentation of a Slovene translation of a book The Case for Universal Basic Services from Anna Coote and Andrew Percy took place at the Oton Župnačič Library. The chair of the event sociologist Otto Gerdina with lecturer from University of Ljubljana School of economics and business dr. Tamara Pavasović Trošt and lecturer from University of Ljubljana Faculty of social work dr. Srečo Dragoš presented the idea of the book to the audience. The plan of universal basic services (UBS) includes health-care, education, childcare, adult care, housing, public transport and information.
Key words: book presentation, UBS, welfare state
ON FAITH OF THE OLDER PEOPLE ON THE SUNNY SIDE OF THE ALPS
Date of the event: Wednesday, 29th September 2021, at 18:00
Place of the event: Oton Župančič Library
Type of the event: book presentation
Speakers:
Tomaž Gerdina
Frančiška Ćetković
Abstract: On Wednesday, 29th September 2021, a presentation of a book Crescendo in the same major or On faith of the older people on the sunny side of the Alps took place at the Oton Župnačič Library during the Festival for the third period of life. The central theme of the book is ageism. Participants in the discussion were the author of the book Tomaž Gerdina and the president of Slovenian Pensioners’ Union Frančiška Ćetković.
Key words: book presentation, agesim, covid-19, action plan
TRAVELS WITH EPICURUS: MEDITATIONS FROM A GREEK ISLAND ON THE PLEASURES OF OLD AGE
Date of the event: Tuesday, 8th of June 2021 at 11:00
Place of the event: Oton Župančič Library
Type of the event: book presentation
Speakers:
Matjaž Lunaček
dr. med. dr. Zvezdan Pirtošek
dr. Primož Turk
Abstract: On Monday, June 6, following a release of Slovene translation of Daniel Klein’s book Travels with Epicures, which was excellently translated for OPRO by Maja Lupša, we organized a discussion at the Library of Oton Župančič. With experts from different fields, doctor Zvezdan Pirtošek, psychiatrist and psychoanalyst Matjaž Lunaček, and philosopher Primož Turk we opened several topics related to old age which can be found throughout the book, wherein most attention received slowness, the potential of positive solitude, the search for existential authenticities, libido and the philosophy of fulfilment. We draw conclusions about lessons that can be learned for good life in old age from the practicality of stoicism, the advantages of mindfulness, and the importance of spirituality.
Key words: old age, book presentation, philosophy of fulfilment
SUPPORTING DISABLED PEOPLE WITH THEIR SEXUAL LIVES
Date of the event: Thursday, 8th of October 2020 at 11:00
Place of the event: University of Sigmund Freud Ljubljana
Type of the event: book presentation
Speakers:
Štefan Čerček
Vlasta Nussdorfer
Boštjan Vernik Šetinec
Abstract: Panel discussion accompanied the release of the book Supporting Disabled People with their Sexual Lives: A Clear Guide for Health and Social Care Professionals by Tuppy Owens and Claire de Than. Speakers Štefan Čerček, who has lived his whole life with a disability, Vlasta Nussdorfer, an advisor to the president of the Republic of Slovenia and Boštjan Vernik Šetinec, an advisor to the Advocate of the principle of equality raised pressing questions about supporting disabled people with their sex life: how to deal with the emotions and feelings of a disabled person in your care; what to do with passion, the desire for intimate closeness to another man or woman in a care setting and how experts can approach the topic of sexuality of disabled people.
Key words: supporting disabled people, sexual rights, book presentation
ENDING THE SILENCE – 50 YEARS LATER
Date of the event: Monday, 5th of October 2020 at 18:00
Place of the event: Oton Župančič Library
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
Mirjana Nastran
Ule Metka
Mencin Čeplak
Co-producer: Ljubljana City Library
Abstract: Dr. Mirjana Nastran Ule and dr. Metka Mencin Čeplak answered questions about the contemporary implications of the seminal work of Simone de Beauvoir on old age La Viellese which was originally printed 50 years ago. The debate raised the issue of othering and systematic discrimination of older people.
Key words: old age, Simone de Beauvoir, othering, discrimination
MATJAŽ LUNAČEK: SOUNDS AND IMAGES
Date of the event: Wednesday, 3rd of June 2020 at 18:00
Place of the event: Oton Župančič Library
Type of the event: book presentation
Speakers:
dr. Matjaž Lunaček
dr. Ana Tavčar Pirkovič
Co-producer: Ljubljana City Library
Abstract: The author Dr. Matjaž Lunaček discussed his latest book Sounds and Images with and Dr. Ana Tavčar Pirkovič. The book combines vignettes and short stories, fiction and biography to convey intimate reflections on various prominent personalities and events that have shaped our culture and society. The book is divided in several parts containing vignettes, essays and dialogues.
Key words: book presentation, fiction, vignettes, essays, dialogues
SIMONE DE BEAUVOIR ON OLD AGE
Date of the event: Thursday, 12th of March 2020 at 18:30
Place of the event: Kulturni center Španski borci
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
Dušana Findeisen
Anamarija Kajžar
Co-producer: EN-KNAP Production
Abstract: Panel discussion accompanied the release of Simone de Beauvoir’s second volume of the book Old Age. Dušana Findeisen from the Slovenian Third Age University and Anamarija Kejžar from the Faculty of Social Work University of Ljubljana participated in the discussion on myths and realities of old age. The panel addressed societies’ marginalization and neglect of its oldest members.
Keywords: old age, the experience of aging, marginalization, book presentation
AGEISM IN HEALTH CARE INSTITUTIONS
Date of the event: 12th of December 2019
Place of the event: Kulturni center Španski borci
Type of the event: lecture
Speakers:
dr. Majda Pahor Prof.
dr. Zvezdan Pirtošek
dr. med Duša Hlade Zore, dr. med.
Co-producer: EN-KNAP Production
Abstract: Panel discussion about ageism in health care institutions brought togeather four renown speakers: neurologist Zvezdan Pirtošek, ombudsman Duša Hlade Zore and sociologist Majda Pahor. They stressed that 2/3 of people over 65 suffer from ageism in Slovene health care institutions. Despite this alarmant state there are no signs of future improvements. The panelists agreed that the root of the problem lies in the absence of gerontological education for health care professionals.
Key words: ageism, health care institutions, patient rights
DOUBLE VULNERABILITY OF OLD PRISONERS
Date of the event: 12th of December 2019
Place of the event: Kulturni center Španski borci
Type of the event: lecture
Speakers:
Dragan Petrovec
Suzana Wolf
Vito Flaker
Co-producer: EN-KNAP Production
Abstract: On Thursday, December 12, OPRO organized a panel discussion about ageing in Slovenian prisons. The speakers were Suzana Wolf (Ministry of Justice), Dragan Petrovec (Faculty of Law), and Vito Flaker (Faculty of Social Work). The debate was cantered about the fact that existing prisons are built and organized to accommodate young and vital prisoners. Old prisoners, even those with minimal health problems, often find themselves in difficulty in intra-prisoner mobility. Furthermore those with chronic health problems do not always receive adequate medical care. Among the most vulnerable are prisoners with advanced dementia, Parkinson’s disease or serious cardiovascular diseases.
Key words: ageing, prison population, discrimination
WOMEN’S SEXUALITY THROUGH A LIFE COURSE PERSPECTIVE
Date of the event: 10th of October 2019
Place of the event: Kulturni center Španski borci
Type of the event: lecture
Speakers:
Ivan Bernik
Co-producer: EN-KNAP Production
Abstract: On the 7th of November 2019, sociologist, professor Ivan Bernik held a lecture about women’s sexuality. The lecture focused on the women born before and during the world war two, and their experiences with sexuality. He used a life course perspective.
Key words: women, sexuality, life course
GROWING OLD AIN’T FOR SISSIES
Date of the event: 10th of October 2019
Place of the event: Kulturni center Španski borci
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
Matjaž Lunaček
Vesna Leskovšek
Otto Gerdina
Co-producer: EN-KNAP Production
Abstract: On 10th of October we organised a presentation of the book “Starost ni za mevže” (Growing old ain’t for sissies). The participants were psychiatrist and writer Matjaž Lunaček, Vesna Leskovšek from the Faculty of social work and Otto Gerdina from the Faculty of social sciences. The discussion was about the power dynamics and IPV after retirement among older couples.
Key words: old age, IPV, power relations, gender
ABANDONED OLD MIRRORS: AGE DISCRIMINATION AND MOBBING OF OLDER EMPLOYEES
Date of the event: 21th of June 2019
Place of the event: Union of journalists of Slovenia
Type of the event: public debate
Speakers:
Maja Megla
Mladen Markota
Aljoša Gadžijev
Otto Gerdina
Abstract: On 21st od June, OPRO participated in a public debate together with Faculty of social sciences and with Union of journalists of Slovenia. The debate included a presentation of a research project on media representations of old age and mobbing.
Key words: mobbing, media representations, older employees
WHEN GOING TO THE MOVIES OR A HAIRDRESSER BECOME A LUXURY: A PROJECT TO HELP THE OLDER PEOPLE BELOW THE POVERTY LINE
Date of the event: 4th of June 2019
Place of the event: Kulturni center Španski borci
Type of the event: panel discusion
Speakers:
Boris Krabonja
Vesna Leskošek
Marjana Ule
Co-producer: EN-KNAP Production
Abstract: On 4th of June, OPRO, UP-ornik and Državljani sveta organized a discussion “Ko kino in frizer postaneta razkošje” (When going to the movies or a hairdresser become a luxury), in order to raise the awareness about the issue of social exclusion and poverty in old age.
Key words: old age, social exclusion, altruism
WHEN YOU CAN’T GO WHEREVER YOU WANT; THE IMPORTANCE OF SPATIAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR FULL CITIZENSHIP IN OLD AGE
Date of the event: 9th of May 2019
Place of the event: Kulturni center Španski borci
Type of the event: panel discusion
Speakers:
Barbara Purkart
Marjan Sedmak
Anamarija Kejžar
Co-producer: EN-KNAP Production
Abstract: Old-age social exclusion is characterized by a denial of access to resources, rights, goods and services as well as limited participation in everyday relations and activities which are otherwise accessible to majority of people in a society. For full citizenship in old age having rights is not enough. One also must be able to implement them. The extent to which the latter is possible is related to person’s individual characteristics (e.g. formal education or health condition), personal events or crisis (e.g. divorce, unemployment), social arrangement (e.g. national welfare systems), and spatial arrangements (e.g. elevator).
Key words: old age, spatial exclusion, rights, citizenship
DOCTOR IS NOT YET A COMPANY
Date of the event: 11th of April 2019
Place of the event: Kulturni center Španski borci
Type of the event: panel discusion
Speakers: Otto Gerdina Liljana Batič Majda Hrženjak Bojana Genorio
Co-producer: EN-KNAP Production
Abstract: On Thursday, 11th of April 2019, we organized a panel discussion on exclusion from social relations as a factor of health and wellbeing. Otto Gerdina discussed this topic with the director of Home care institute of Ljubljana, Liljana Batič, researcher at Peace institute, Majda Hrženjak and the director of Retirement home Fužine, Bojana Genorio. The main question of the discussion was, can the social care for the older people be based on underpaid nurses and volunteers.
Key words: exclusion from social relations, long-term care, formal and unformal care
AN OLD PERSON, WHO IS NO LONGER AN INDIVIDUAL
Date of the event: 14th of March 2019
Place of the event: Kulturni center Španski borci
Type of the event: panel discusion
Speakers:
Metka Mencin Čeplak
Simon Strgar
Roman Kuhar
Co-producer: EN-KNAP Production
Abstract: On Thursday, 14th of March 2019, we discussed identity exclusion in old age. The panelists were Metka Mencin Čeplak, Simon Strgar and Roman Kuhar. We heard, that people are often labeled as fragile and dependent at the slightest sign of old age. Than they are no longer individuals but recipients of services, and caretakers often see them through the prism of their diagnosis. Uniqueness is conclusively disregarded with the onset of old age.
Key words: old age, identity exclusion, labeling
PREJUDICES AND OLD-AGE EXCLUSION
Date of the event: 14th of February 2019
Place of the event: Kulturni center Španski borci
Type of the event: panel discusion
Speakers:
Mirjana Nastran Ule
Miha Lobnik
Vito Flaker
Co-producer: EN-KNAP Production
Abstract: Ageism originated as one of many -isms of 21st century (along with racism and sexism). Partially, because it touches everyone, old and young, and partially because it includes basic questions of social policies.
Key words: ageism, prejudice, discrimination
GROWING OLD IN THE TIMES OF THE INTERNET
Date of the event: 10th of January 2019
Place of the event: Kulturni center Španski borci
Type of the event: book presentation
Speakers:
Dragan Petrovec
Zoran Sentković
Co-producer: EN-KNAP Production
Abstract: At the presentation of Dragan Petrovec’s book, Pismo nigerijske vdove (A letter from a Nigerian widow) on 10th of January 2019, the facilitator Zoran Sentković joked by asking the author if it’s true that salaries at the Institute for criminology are so low that he must increase his family budget by writing books. The conversation continued in similar fashion.
Key words: book presentation, anecdotes, humor
AGING POLICIES WERE AND ARE AN ABOMINATION
Date of the event: Thursday, 13th of December 2018 at 18:30
Place of the event: Kulturni center Španski borci
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
Alenka Švab
Tina Bilban
Damir Josipovič
Abstract: Panel discussion about fundamental but largely overlooked book Old Age: The Position of the Exterior by Simone de Beauvoir. Alenka Švab, Tina Bilban and Damir Josipovič participated in the discussion on social attitude towards old age, aging policies and intergenerational solidarity.
Keywords: aging policy, aging, intergenerational solidarity, book presentation
PHILOSOPHERS AND LOVE
Date of the event: Thursday, 8th of November 2018 at 18:30
Place of the event: Kulturni center Španski borci
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
Eva D. Bahovec
Vesna Švab
Co-producer: EN-KNAP Production
Abstract: Presentation of the translation of the book Philosophers and Love – To Love: From Socrates to Simone de Beauvoir. Philosopher Dr. Eva Bahovec and psychiatrist dr. Vesna Švab spoke about love, morality, the difficulty of explaining passion, the masculine view of love, the illusion of eternity, the agony of longing, libido, and similar topics.
Keywords: love, libido, philosophy, book presentation
THE FATE OF IMPOVERISHED MASS AND UNIVERSAL BASIC INCOME
Date of the event: Thursday, 11th of October 2018 at 18:30
Place of the event: Kulturni center Španski borci
Type of the event: discussion
Speaker:
Urban Boljka
The event was co-financed by the Municipality of Ljubljana.
Co-producer: EN-KNAP Production
Abstract: Presentation of the booklet ‘Usoda tržnega dna’ (The fate of impoverished mass and universal basic income) rounded up six discussions we have had organized on the topi cof universal basic income in the first half of 2018.
Key words: universal basic income, experiments, implementation
UBI: A POSITIVE OR NEGATIVE SOCIAL IMPACT?
Date of the event: Thursday, 7th of June 2018 at 18:30
Place of the event: Kulturni center Španski borci
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
Anita Ogulin
Marjan Vončina
Simona Strnad
dr. Urban Boljka
The event was co-financed by the Municipality of Ljubljana
Co-producer: EN-KNAP Production
Abstract: The dilemmas on universal basic income are getting significantly more arduous connotations when we include the facts about the reality of social circumstances of individuals inhabiting local community. Some of the basic assumptions become less obvious.
Key words: universal basic income, social circumstances, local community
POLITICAL PARTIES: BETWEEN EMPATHY AND SELF-INTEREST
Date of the event: Thursday, 10th of May 2018 at 18:30
Place of the event: Kulturni center Španski borci
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
dr. Franc Trček
Janez Cigler-Kralj
Lucija Šenkinc
Rok Deželak
dr. Janez Šušteršič
The event was co-financed by the Municipality of Ljubljana.
Co-producer: EN-KNAP Production
Abstract: Social programmes are a crucial talking point during political campaigns. In light of the ongoing parliamentary election campaign, UBI was discussed as an option to help eliminate poverty and gaping social inequality. The panel consisted of representatives of several Slovenian political parties, participating in the 2018 election.
Key words: universal basic income, policy, political discourse
PENSIONERS AND STUDENTS AS THE FACTOR OF CHANGES
Date of the event: Thursday, 12th of April 2018 at 18:30
Place of the event: Kulturni center Španski borci
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
dr. Urban Boljka
Frančiška Ćetković
Tinca Lukan
The event was co-financed by the Municipality of Ljubljana.
Co-producer: EN-KNAP Production
Abstract: The rising number of pensioners, gradual decay of social and healthcare systems and the rising uncertainty of future career options for younger generations are problems which affect both the younger and older generations of citizens. The inability of solving these problems effectively and sustainably could be the trigger of social changes.
Key words: universal basic income, social dialogue, coalition building
IS CAPITAL TO PROFIT FROM UNIVERSAL BASIC INCOME?
Date of the event: Thursday, 15th of March 2018 at 18:30
Place of the event: Kulturni center Španski borci
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
dr. Miroljub Ignjatovič
Goran Novkovič
Perica Radonjič
The event was co-financed by the Municipality of Ljubljana.
Co-producer: EN-KNAP Production
Abstract: UBI is commonly linked to leftist political policies, but it also gained support among the business leaders from the world of most advanced technologies. In the 1960’s renowned economist Milton Friedman suggested one of its variants. Nowadays the media report that Elon Musk of Tesla finds UBI as the potential response to automation of production.
Key words: universal basic income, capitalist society
UBI: OPTIONS, IMPACT, DILEMMAS
Date of the event: Thursday, 1th of Febrauary 2018 at 18:30
Place of the event: Kulturni center Španski borci
Type of the event: lecture
Speaker:
dr. Tanja Rener
The event was co-financed by the Municipality of Ljubljana.
Co-producer: EN-KNAP Production
Abstract: If the social righteousness is replaced with free flow of capital and goods, the economy is adapted to the needs of finances and not of people. According to that the modification of as politics as capital are inevitable, especially regarding their social responsibility. Otherwise the state responsibility regarding welfare of people shall become the burden of individuals.
Key words: universal basic income
THE UBI STORY: SLOVENIA
Date of the event: Thursday, 11th of January 2018 at 18:30
Place of the event: Kulturni center Španski borci
Type of the event: lecture
Speaker:
dr. Valerija Korošec
The event was co-financed by the Municipality of Ljubljana.
Co-producer: EN-KNAP Production
Abstract: Let us give to all the citizens a modest but unconditional income, and let them freely decide whether they want to upgrade it with the income from other sources, wrote Philippe Van Parijs a long time ago. We are to be presented at what point is Slovenia regarding the development of that idea, what is its history, and what activities, hopes, problems and achievements was The Section for Promotion of Universal Basic Income in Slovenia confronted with.
Key words: universal basic income
EROTICISM AS A DRIVE, MOMENT OF HAPPINESS AND CONFIRMATION OF PRESENTATION OF THE SELF
Date of the event: Thursday, 14th of December 2017 at 18:30
Place of the event: Kulturni center Španski borci
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
prof. dr. Ivan Bernik
Matjaž Lunaček
dr. med, doc. dr. Mirt Komel
Abstract: It is not true, Montaigne said, that old age is automatically rewarded with wisdom. On the contrary, old peaople are more prone to complacency and faults than young ones. But there is the turn hiding as the value of old age derives from the adaptation to such faults. When one in his own body and in his own soul find the signs of decline, he accepts the fact of his limitations and humanity. When he understands, that old age doesn’t make him wiser, he becomes wiser in a way. To learn at long last means to live with one’s imperfection and even gratefully embracing it.
Key words: eroticism, libido, drive
EVER INCREASING SUICIDE RATES AMONG THE ELDERLY: WHY ARE THEY OVERLOOKED?
Date of the event: Thursday, 9th of November 2017 at 18:30
Place of the event: Kulturni center Španski borci
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
prof. dr. Boris Ošlaj
Gorazd Jesenko
prof. dr. Vesno Švab
Abstract: When circumstances threaten a person’s identity, denying an essential aspect of what a person believes to be his or her true self, suicide provides the ultimate release from a potentially painful conflict. Also the changing standards of last decades civilisation norms disintegrate the status of elderly allowing more and more sophisticated forms of violence and marginalisation. The elderly are the only age cohort with increasing number of suicides and also increasing the share among elderly themselves. And yet neither the media not the politics are paying almost none attention to the phenomenon.
Key words: suicide, elderly, marginalization
PRODUCTIVITY? NO, THANK YOU! FROM ‘SUCCESSFUL’ TO ‘GOOD’ AGEING
Date of the event: Thursday, 12th of October 2017 at 18:30
Place of the event: Kulturni center Španski borci
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
Doc. dr. Metka Mencin Čeplak
Bogdan Lipovšek
Dr. Katarina Štebe
Abstract: Public policies on aging are based on activity and continuity theories that stress the importance of productivity, efficiency and independence. The panel discussion will discuss whether ‘successful’ ageing, a concept that is based on the avoidance of disease, the maintenance of high physical and cognitive function, and sustained engagement in social and productive activities, is the best model of ageing for all, and present an alternative view on ageing.
Key words: ageing theories, gerotranscendence, personality development
VIOLENCE AGAINST ELDERLY MEN
Date of the event: Thursday, 11th of May 2017 at 18:30
Place of the event: Kulturni center Španski borci
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
dr. Maca Jogan
Mirjam Kline
prim. dr. Nena Kopčavar Guček, dr. med.
Abstract: Panel discussion involved dr. Maca Jogan, Mirjam Kline and dr. Nena Kopčavar Guček. It was said that the increasing amount of information available on prevalence of elder maltreatment across EU and USA brings forward the need to discuss violence against older men at greater length. The current level of attention leaves the needs of older male victims of family violence understood and uninformed. Tackling the problem of family violence from an older men perspective is important because it states that their problems and needs are of no less importance than those of older females.
Key words: violence, old age, male victims
ETHICAL ISSUES AND DEMENTIA: BETWEEN SECURITY AND FREEDOM
Date of the event: Četrtek, 6. april 2017 ob 18:30
Place of the event: Kulturni center Španski borci
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
prof. dr. Zvezdan Pirtošek
Štefanija L. Zlobec
izr. prof. dr. Jana Mali
Simon Strgar
Abstract: Panelists dr. Jana Mali, Simon Strgar, dr. Zvezdan Pirtošek and Štefanija Zlobec stressed that those providing support and care for people with dementia face ethical problems on a daily basis: for example, when balancing safety with freedom; deciding what is in the best interests of the person with dementia; and recognizing that the needs of the person with dementia may sometimes conflict with the needs of others who also deserve consideration.
Key words: ethics, dementia, caring relationship
MOBBING AND OUSTING OF THE ELDERLY EMPLOYEES
Date of the event: Thursday, 2nd of March 2017 at 18:30
Place of the event: Kulturni center Španski borci
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
Tatjana Arnšek
Iztok Jurančič
Sandra Cico
Abstract: Panelists Tatjana Arnšek, Iztok Jurančič and Sandra Cico have outlined the prevalent judicial and public tolerance to the psychological violence towards elderly employees, that are legally protected or just few years before such protection. The logic of contemporary trends in capitalism demand getting rid of employees before such protection is reached. Many employers pursue this goal by following unwritten rules of mobbing, a subtle form of torment that is usually difficult to prove in court.
Key words: mobbing, capitalism, elder employees
HIDDEN CONTEMPT FOR WEAKNESS: INDIVIDUAL AND INSTITUTIONAL INFANTILIZATION OF THE ELDERLY
Date of the event: Thursday, 2nd of February 2017 at 18:30
Place of the event: Kulturni center Španski borci
Type of the event: panel discussion
Speakers:
dr. Mateja Kožuh Novak
dr. Breda Sobočan
prof. dr. Vito Flaker
Abstract: Infantilzation is a behavioral pattern in which person of authority interacts with, responds to, or treats an elderly person in a child-like manner. It is a form of elder abuse that diminishes a person’s sense of self-worth and can increase the risk of cognitive impairment. The panelists dr. Mateja Kožuh Novak, dr. Breda Sobočan, and dr. Vito Flaker have discussed key questions regarding infantilization and deliberated on possible means of minimizing verbal elder abuse.
Key words: infantilization, verbal abuse, old age