International Studies Conference 2026
Pakistan and the Region Beyond: Navigating Conflict, Geopolitical Flux and Economic Opportunities
Dates
July 8-12, 2026
Venue
Baragali Campus, Peshawar
Expected Participants
150+
Paper Presentations
20+ Papers
Background
The International Studies Conference 2026, organized by the consortium of HEIs, represents a significant milestone in advancing academic inquiry into the Pakistan–Afghanistan region and its wider geopolitical environment. Hosted at the historic Baragali Summer Campus of the University of Peshawar, this flagship event brings together distinguished scholars, policymakers, practitioners, and emerging student leaders from around the world.
The conference focuses on critical inquiry into the Pakistan–Afghanistan region and adjacent frontier spaces, exploring historical continuities, evolving political dynamics, security challenges, economic transformations, and societal change. By examining both old and emerging frontiers, the conference aims to make these complex spaces more politically legible through rigorous interdisciplinary dialogue.
The Department of International Relations at the University of Peshawar has a long-standing tradition of excellence in teaching and research, with particular expertise in regional studies. Through this annual conference, we strengthen our commitment to fostering scholarly exchange that bridges academic research with policy-oriented perspectives, contributing meaningfully to regional understanding and cooperation.
Conference Objectives
Our goals for creating a meaningful academic experience
Investigate the historical, socio-cultural, political, and economic dimensions of frontier regions as spaces of separation and connectivity.
Examine emerging challenges and new opportunities in Southwest and Central Asia amid globalization and evolving power structures.
Encourage interdisciplinary discussions on conflict, security, migration, identity, governance, sustainability, and resistance.
Foster academic growth among university students through dedicated panels, mentoring sessions, and research forums.
Develop practical recommendations for peacebuilding, inclusive development, and effective frontier governance.
Host Institution
Baragali Summer Campus
University of Peshawar
Established in 1950, the University of Peshawar is one of Pakistan’s oldest and most prestigious institutions of higher learning. With a rich history of academic excellence, the university has been at the forefront of research and education in the region.
The Department of International Relations is renowned for its contributions to regional studies, with particular expertise in the Pakistan–Afghanistan region and broader Southwest Asian dynamics. The historic Baragali Summer Campus provides an ideal setting for scholarly exchange and academic engagement.
25k+
Students Enrolled
Top
National Ranking
75+
Years of Excellence
50+
Academic Programs
Conference Themes
Explore diverse areas of international studies through our thematic tracks
Pakistan–Afghanistan Relations and Regional Geopolitics
Focuses on bilateral relations, border dynamics, security challenges, trade cooperation, and the broader geopolitical impact on the region.
Regional dynamics, strategic relations, and geopolitical shifts
Explores changing power structures, regional alliances, governance challenges, and the strategic transformations shaping South and Central Asia.
Conflict, Peacebuilding, and Security Studies
Security challenges, conflict resolution, and peacebuilding initiatives.
Political Economy and Regional Development
Economic transformations, development, and regional cooperation.
Society, Identity, and State–Frontier Relations
Social dynamics, identity politics, and state-frontier interactions.
Migration, Refugees, and Border Management
Population movements, refugee crises, and border governance.
Climate Change and Non-Traditional Security
Environmental challenges and emerging security threats.
Diplomacy, Foreign Policy, and Strategic Trends
Diplomatic practices, foreign policy, and strategic developments.
Preventing/Countering Violent Extremism (P/CVE)
Ideological Drivers of Extremism; Socio-economic Pathways to Radicalization; State Policies and Strategies for CVE.
Conference Schedule
Uploading Soon
Day 1 – July 8
Day 1 – July 8
Day 1 – July 8
Day 1 – July 8
Day 1 – July 8
Important Dates
Mark your calendar for these key deadlines
Abstract Submission Deadline
March 1, 2026
Notification of Acceptance
March 10, 2026
Full Paper
Submission
April 20, 2026
Conference
Dates
July 8–12, 2026
Be Part of This Academic Gathering
Register now to secure your spot at the premier international studies conference of 2026