Call for Applicants: “Democratization at Stake: Gender Equality Norms, Backlash, and Policy Futures”, Brussels, Belgium, June 9-10, 2026

Call for Applicants

Democratization at Stake: Gender Equality Norms, Backlash, and Policy Futures

Brussels, Belgium, June 9-10, 2026

Deadline for applications: May 1, 2026

This 1.5-day international event aims to bring together academics, policymakers, civil society actors, and young scholars to address the growing impact of anti-gender politics on democratic systems. The event combines a high-level stakeholder forum (Day 1, June 9, 2026, 09:00-17:00) with an interactive policy lab (Day 2, June 10, 2026, 09:00-14:00), aiming to translate research into policy-relevant insights and foster cross-sector collaboration.

Who Can Apply?
We welcome applications for participation in one of the following tracks:

Panel 1 – Comparative Evidence from EE and NME (Day 1)
We are seeking researchers, particularly affiliated with the dissemination group, to present short, data-driven interventions (10 minutes). Contributions should focus on empirical findings related to anti-gender mobilizations, democratic erosion, and norm diffusion, with an emphasis on clarity and policy relevance rather than theoretical debate.

Panel 2 – Policy & Civil Society Response Mechanisms (Day 1)
We invite practitioners, NGO representatives, and policy actors actively engaged in countering anti-gender policies. This panel will focus on practical experiences, response strategies, and institutional mechanisms, contributing to a structured dialogue with EU stakeholders and civil society actors.

Policy Lab – Young Scholars (Day 2)
We are calling young scholars to participate in an interactive policy lab focused on translating research into policy outputs. Participants will work in thematic groups aligned with four key areas:

1. Norm Diffusion & Transnational Networks
2. Legal and Institutional Mechanisms
3. Media, Discourse, and Digital Mobilization
4. Grassroots Resistance & Innovation

Each participant will contribute to producing:

• A 1-page policy brief (group-based)
• A stakeholder recommendation list
• Identification of key research gaps

The lab will conclude with 3-minute, solution-oriented presentations in which participants pitch concrete policy ideas or innovations. Clear guidelines, templates, and facilitation will be provided to ensure all participants understand expectations and outputs.

Application Requirements
Applicants must clearly indicate which track they are applying for (Panel 1, Panel 2, or Policy Lab – Young Scholars) in their application. Submissions for Panel 1 & Panel 2 should include a presentation title and an abstract. Submissions for the Young Scholars Policy Lab should include a short description of your contribution, relevant experience, and its connection to the event's core themes.

We welcome and encourage all applicants to attend all panels and the policy lab during the workshop!

Apply via this form. Deadline for applications: May 1, 2026