CFP: Global Theory Forum Spring Symposium

The Global Theory Forum (GTF) is now inviting submissions from Early Career political theorists and philosophers for our 2026 Spring Symposium (27th April, Room 421, Roberts Building, University College London). We are thrilled to be funded by the Society for Applied Philosophy, which aims to promote philosophical work with direct practical and public impact.

The event will include four panels, each involving two early-career speakers and one senior discussant, and arranged around four topical themes:

1. The methodology of situated theory (chaired by Dr Alice Baderin, University of Reading)

2. Digital technology, AI, and global power (chaired by Dr Alex Grzankowski, KCL)

3. The climate crisis (chaired by Dr Ross Mittiga, SOAS)

4. Work and its future (chaired by Dr Tom Parr, UniversityofWarwick)

More details on these themes can be found on our website: https://www.globaltheoryforum.co.uk/spring-symposium. In each panel, speakers will present for 15-20 minutes, followed by a response from our senior discussant and a Q&A.

The Symposium keynote will be delivered by Professor Jeff Howard (UCL), whose research on online communications pairs political philosophy with deep engagement with policy and legal scholarship. There will also be a drinks reception hosted at UCL, and dinner for the selected panellists and discussants.

We invite PhD students and ECRs (within 5 years post-PhD) to submit their 150-word abstract by 9th March 2026 via this form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1OubS-Z0G6UDbFbZiW0FV0_iXAWoL267tJkSbyRJwprQ/edit. We particularly encourage those in the midst of developing ideas to apply, as GTF aims to be a space for theoretical experimentation, academic exchange, and collaborative growth. We are open to work using a variety of methodologies and disciplinary backgrounds, as long as there is a substantial political theory or philosophical focus. We particularly welcome work drawing on international political thinkers or problems. Travel and accommodation costs will also be supported for those based outside of London (up to a maximum of £135). Please direct any questions to [email protected].