Call for abstracts

Conference Theme – Political Transitions: Continuity and Change

Recent shifts in government and leadership, both in the UK and globally, have bought with them significant uncertainty about the consequences of future political action. Political transitions inevitably bring continuity and change. They present both challenges and opportunities for reimagining policy responses to pressing issues such as inequality, social exclusion, and climate justice.

This year’s conference theme explores what the prospects are for enacting change toward greater social, political, environmental and economic justice in a period of political transition. As societies grapple with the aftereffects of the COVID-19 pandemic, growing digital divides, a cost-of-living crisis, and the escalating climate crisis, research and practice are at the forefront of understanding these challenges and devising solutions. From the persistence of long-standing inequalities to the development of new policy frameworks aimed at fostering inclusion, the conference invites critical reflection on how continuity and change manifest in today’s political landscape. By bringing together academics, policymakers, and practitioners, we aim to illuminate the dynamic relationship between stability and innovation in shaping the societies of tomorrow.

We invite submissions that speak directly to this conference theme but also welcome theoretical and empirical papers on broader contemporary issues of social and spatial inequalities. These may focus on, but are by no means limited to, the following:

• Economic development and labour markets.
• Governance and policy making.
• The role of the voluntary and community sector.
• Housing, homelessness and place.
• Sustainability, energy and the environment.

Abstracts should be no more than 300 words and should be submitted through the online submission form. The deadline for abstract submissions is Friday 28 February 2025. We encourage contributions from early career researchers, established academics, and colleagues in policy and practice.

Bookings

Delegate fees include lunch and refreshments during the day. The event is part funded by CRESR and therefore the fee for delegates and presenters is only £50 (or £30 for students). A small number of bursaries will be available to cover the fee for attendees who do not have institutional support. Please indicate if you wish to be considered for a bursary when submitting an abstract. Bookings will open Spring 2025.