Call for Papers | UACES Graduate Forum Research Conference 2025

Democracy is under increasing scrutiny as the world faces profound challenges. The EU, traditionally seen as a beacon of democratic values, now contends with rising authoritarianism, nationalism, and a polarized media landscape that fosters disinformation and erodes trust in political institutions. Elections—once the hallmark of democratic legitimacy—have begun to yield leaders who question the very foundations of the systems they represent. The geopolitical challenges confronting Europe—whether in Ukraine, the Middle East, or in its antagonism with China, and potentially even the United States—further complicate the EU's efforts to preserve democratic principles on the global stage. These external tensions are compounded by challenges that extend beyond Europe's borders, such as economic inequality, migration crises, and the growing geopolitical influence of authoritarian powers. Together, these issues create a complex and unpredictable landscape, making it increasingly difficult for Europe to safeguard its democratic values while navigating these external pressures. 

The UACES Graduate Forum Research Conference 2025 will explore the interplay between democracy and crisis within the EU. The conference calls for research that examines the evolution of EU values over time and across different contexts. Scholars in political science, law, history, economics, and related fields are encouraged to contribute. We welcome research that employs both traditional and innovative methodologies. 

The conference provides a platform for young and emerging scholars to investigate democracy and EU values. UACES particularly welcomes proposals from BIPOC academics, scholars from under-represented geographies (e.g. the Global South) and scholars from disciplines that have lower representation at UACES events, including anthropology, cultural studies and history.

When submitting your proposal you should indicate which theme your paper aligns with. This will help the Graduate Forum team in creating panels when putting the programme together.

• European Integration and Enlargement

• Critical Approaches to EU Studies

• EU Institutions and Political Parties

• Democracy and Political Participation

• EU Law and Policymaking

• Global Europe and Foreign and Security Policy

• Migration and Refugee Studies

• Economic Inequality and Social Policy

• European History, Identity, and Diaspora Studies

• Rule of Law and Constitutionalism

• Open Track

We look forward to thought-provoking discussions and contributions that shed light on the future of democracy and EU values.

Ready to share your research? Submit your paper by completing the sign-up form by midnight on 23 March 2025.