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The Role of International Conferences — A Theoretical Framework

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 November 2010

Evelyn Shapiro  and
Joseph Kaufert
Evelyn Shapiro
Affiliation:
The University of Manitoba
Joseph Kaufert
Affiliation:
The University of Manitoba
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Abstract

Edelman's (1967,1977) analysis of political processes is used as the theoretical framework within which to examine the role of international conferences such as the recent World Assembly on Aging. The function of such international assemblies and the role of participating policymakers and experts are interpreted as part of a symbolic process which legitimates problem definitions and national policies, and validates the roles of policy makers, bureaucrats and experts. The paper questions whether these meetings have real potential for influencing national policies and discusses the factors which limit their relevance and usefulness for developing countries.

Résumé

L'analyse des processus politiques faite par Edelman (1967, 1977) sert de cadre théorique à l'examen du rôle joué par les congrès internationaux tels que le récent “World Assembly on Aging” (Assemblée mondiale sur le vieillissement). La fonction de ces assemblées et le rôle des dirigeants politiques apparaissent constitutifs d'un processus symbolique susceptible de conférer une certaine légitimité à la politique nationale et d'entériner le rôle des spécialistes, bureaucrates et dirigeants politiques. L'auteur remet en question l'influence que ces congrès peuvent exercer sur la politique nationale et discute des facteurs qui en limitent la pertinence et l'utilité pour les pays en voie de développement

Type
Articles
Information
Canadian Journal on Aging / La Revue canadienne du vieillissement , Volume 2 , Issue 2 , October 1983 , pp. 43 - 49
Copyright
Copyright © Canadian Association on Gerontology 1983

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References

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