Welcome Letter

Dear Colleagues and Friends,

It is a great pleasure to welcome you to Lecce for the 19th European Conference on Organised Films (ECOF 19). It is the chance to renovate and strengthen our deep and common efforts toward a more robust and efficient sharing of purposes and of scientific breakthroughs, advancements and updates.

Our community last gathered in Puglia for ECOF 8 in Otranto in 2001, and it is especially meaningful this year to remember all the dear colleagues who took part in ECOF 8, whose ideas, spirit, and commitment continue to inspire us even if some are no longer with us. Their contributions, memories, and friendships are part of the foundation upon which we build this gathering. We were young in that occurrence, and the organization of that Conference was at the same time a bit intrepid, with minimal funding, but with the participation of 180 delegates from every continent. But time flies and we are now carrying out again this adventure after 25 years with the same passion and enthusiasm and with the essential and crucial contributions of younger and strong-willed scientists.

This year’s conference brings together researchers, industry professionals, and emerging voices from across Europe and beyond. Over the coming days, we will explore the latest developments in organised film and system studies and practice, exchange innovative ideas, and foster collaborations that will shape the field for years to come.

In a moment when the world faces critical challenges and growing divisions, the mission of ECOF resonates more than ever. By advancing understanding, dialogue, and creative expression across cultures, our community helps to build bridges and promote a spirit of cooperation and peace. The conversations and partnerships we nurture here in Lecce can ripple outward, reminding us that knowledge and cultural engagement are powerful forces for a more peaceful world. Events such as ECOF 19 play a vital role in encouraging not only scientific progress but also the values of mutual respect, peace, and shared development across nations.

A key goal of ECOF 19 is to reaffirm and strengthen the importance of the ECOF conferences within the international scientific landscape, ensuring that our work remains at the forefront of global research and continues to attract the most innovative minds in the field.

Our heartfelt gratitude goes to the members of the Scientific Committee, whose expertise and dedication have ensured the highest academic quality of the program. Equally, we extend our sincere thanks to the Organising Committee, whose tireless efforts have made it possible for us to meet in this beautiful city and enjoy a seamless and inspiring conference experience.

We are also deeply honored by the presence of our eminent invited speakers, whose pioneering research and visionary perspectives illuminate new directions for our field. Their contributions will enrich our discussions, spark fresh ideas, and inspire the next generation of scholars and practitioners.

We warmly acknowledge the generous support of our sponsors, whose commitment has been essential in making this event possible. Their contributions help sustain the vibrant exchange of ideas that defines ECOF and allow us to welcome participants from around the world.

Finally, we express the hope for a strong and enthusiastic participation of young scholars, whose energy, curiosity, and fresh perspectives are vital for the continued growth and renewal of our discipline. May this conference provide them with opportunities to share their work, form lasting connections, and help shape the future of organised system research.

Lecce, often called the “Florence of the South,” offers a setting rich in history, art, and hospitality. We hope you will take time to enjoy its Baroque architecture, vibrant culture, and the warmth of its people.  We are especially proud to host this edition in collaboration with the University of Salento, whose commitment to excellence and openness to the world has made it a prominent hub in the international cultural and academic panorama. The University’s dedication to research, interdisciplinary dialogue, and global partnerships provides an ideal foundation for a conference that seeks to connect diverse perspectives and advance collective knowledge.

Thank you for being part of ECOF 19. Your participation is what makes this gathering meaningful. We wish you an inspiring conference and a memorable stay in Lecce.

With warm regards,

Prof. Ludovico Valli

Conference Chairman of ECOF 19