معرفی
Ilona Blumgrund is a theological researcher at Åbo Akademi University, affiliated with the Faculty of Humanities, Psychology and Theology and the Polin Institute. Her work centers on the intersection of religion, migration, and human rights, particularly focusing on the credibility assessment of religious conversion among asylum seekers in Finland.
- Faculty of Humanities, Psychology and Theology, Åbo Akademi
- Polin Institute
- Active researcher in theology and migration
Her research explores how lived religion—expressed through daily practices and communal interactions—influences the conversion experiences of refugees with Muslim backgrounds. She critically analyzes the theological and ethical implications of state authorities like Migri evaluating the authenticity of religious belief. Her work emphasizes the dignity of personal faith narratives and challenges bureaucratic frameworks that reduce religion to checklist criteria.
The publication trends reveal a consistent focus on religious conversion in asylum contexts, with increasing attention to material culture (e.g., kitchen utensils, altarpieces) and affective dimensions (e.g., smiles, hospitality) as markers of authentic religious transformation. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges theology, sociology of religion, and migration studies.
While no formal scientific awards are listed in the provided texts, her extensive media engagement—including podcasts and public lectures—demonstrates significant impact beyond academia.
- Podcast: "Harhaoppia" (2023)
- Public theology blog contributions
- Conference presentations across Europe
Ilona Blumgrund actively contributes to academic and public discourse through organizing events like the 'Teologtorsdag' workshop and participating in international forums such as the ICCJ Salzburg Conference. She collaborates with scholars including Hanna Lydén and Anna Leminen, contributing to a growing network on religion and migration in Nordic and European contexts.
