Classics Reborn: World Classical Congress Connects Ancient and Modern Civilizations

The Second World Congress of Classical Studies opened in Athens, Greece, on June 10, 2026, to facilitate dialogue between ancient and modern civilizations. According to reports from People’s Daily and Xinhua Net, the congress aims to shift the focus of global discourse away from geopolitical competition and toward a shared understanding of human civilization.

Why is the congress shifting the focus from geopolitics to civilization dialogue?

People’s Daily reports that China is actively promoting a transition in how global issues are addressed, advocating for a move from geopolitical friction toward “civilization dialogue.” This approach suggests that shared cultural heritage can serve as a neutral ground for international cooperation during periods of political tension.

China Daily supports this framing, reporting that participants view cultural exchange not as a secondary diplomatic tool, but as “the real life.” The publication suggests that these exchanges provide a more authentic connection between nations than formal political negotiations.

The congress serves as a platform to contrast the zero-sum nature of geopolitical strategy with the additive nature of classical studies. By focusing on the origins of law, philosophy, and governance in both the East and West, the event seeks to identify commonalities that predate modern national borders.

How is AI impacting the study of classical civilizations?

The integration of technology into the humanities emerged as a primary theme of the event. Sina Finance reports that scholars are currently questioning how classical studies should respond to the “digital wave” and the rise of artificial intelligence.

Discussions at the congress focused on the tension between traditional philology—the study of language in oral and written historical sources—and the capabilities of “digital intelligence.” Scholars are examining whether AI can enhance the translation of ancient texts or if it risks oversimplifying the nuances of ancient civilizations.

Sina Finance notes that the conversation involves a critical look at how these digital tools are used by modern political actors. The reporting indicates that academic “big shots” at the event provided specific critiques to Western politicians regarding the intersection of technology and cultural preservation.

What is the significance of the Beijing-Athens connection?

Xinhua Net characterizes the congress as a bridge “from Beijing to Athens,” linking two of the world’s most influential ancient cultural centers. This connection is presented as a symbolic and academic effort to connect ancient civilizations with contemporary global dialogue.

The trajectory from Beijing to Athens indicates a broadening of “Classical Studies,” a field historically centered on Greco-Roman antiquity. By linking these two cities, the congress acknowledges the parallel development of classical traditions in East Asia and the Mediterranean.

This expansion allows researchers to compare how different ancient societies handled similar challenges, such as the transition from city-states to empires or the codification of ethical systems. According to Xinhua Net, this comparative approach is essential for a modern world seeking a cohesive global dialogue.

How do different reports frame the event’s goals?

The coverage of the congress varies across sources, revealing different priorities. People’s Daily frames the event primarily as a diplomatic instrument to pivot away from geopolitics. In contrast, Sina Finance focuses on the intellectual and technical crisis posed by the AI era.

While China Daily emphasizes the personal and existential value of cultural exchange, Xinhua Net focuses on the structural connection between the East and West. Together, these reports present the congress as both a diplomatic effort and an academic response to the digital age.

The event continues in Athens, with further sessions expected to address the practical application of classical wisdom to current global governance and the ongoing digital transformation of the humanities.