Deadline for Abstracts: 1 November 2025 | Forum Date: 30 January 2026 | Location: Maastricht University, Netherlands
The Netherlands Network for Human Rights Research (NNHRR), in collaboration with Maastricht University Law School, invites submissions for its fourth annual Doctoral Research Forum, scheduled to take place on Friday, 30 January 2026, at Maastricht University. This event provides a dedicated space for PhD candidates in the field of human rights to present and receive feedback on their research in an inclusive and academically rigorous setting.
This forum is a key opportunity for emerging scholars to refine their ideas, connect with peers and senior academics, and engage in constructive dialogue on some of the most pressing human rights challenges of our time.
About the Forum
The NNHRR Doctoral Research Forum is designed as a supportive platform where doctoral researchers at any stage of their studies can share their ongoing work—whether an early research concept, a specific thesis chapter, or a near-completed article. Each participant will present a 10-minute talk, followed by tailored feedback from a senior NNHRR member and a group Q&A session. The forum prioritizes collaborative learning, peer exchange, and mentorship across academic levels.
Additionally, selected participants may be invited to adapt their presentation into a blog post for publication on the NNHRR’s Human Rights Here blog, providing further visibility for their work.
Eligibility
The Forum is open exclusively to NNHRR PhD members. Applicants must be enrolled in a doctoral programme at the time of the Forum (January 2026). Those in the early stages of their PhD (first or second year) are especially encouraged to apply, though submissions from all stages of research are welcomed.
If you are not yet a member but are in the process of joining the NNHRR, you may still submit an abstract. However, membership must be confirmed before participating in the Forum. Details on how to join the Network can be found on the NNHRR website.
Submission Guidelines
To apply, you must submit the following via the registration form:
- Abstract (maximum 500 words): This may outline your full doctoral research, a specific thesis chapter, or an article in progress. Submissions should clearly indicate the main argument, methodology, and relevance to human rights research.
- Short biography (maximum 100 words): Highlight your academic background, research interests, and institutional affiliation.
- Discussant suggestion (optional): If you have a particular senior NNHRR member in mind as a discussant for your presentation, you may note this in your submission. While suggestions are welcome, final assignments will be made by the organizing team based on thematic alignment.
The deadline to submit abstracts is 1 November 2025. Applicants will be notified of the outcome and their allocated panel by 5 December 2025.
Benefits of Participation
- Academic Feedback: Engage directly with experienced human rights scholars and benefit from tailored, constructive critique.
- Networking: Connect with peers from across the Netherlands and beyond, fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and future collaboration.
- Publication Opportunity: Share your work with a wider audience through the NNHRR blog, subject to editorial approval.
- Mentorship: Strengthen your academic journey through interaction with senior members of the Network.
Registration & Contact
To register your attendance and submit your application materials, please complete the registration form. This form also allows you to upload your abstract and biography.
If you encounter any difficulties with the form or have questions about the Forum, please contact the organizing committee at: [email protected]
The NNHRR Doctoral Research Forum is a unique opportunity to present your research in a dynamic and intellectually engaging environment. We look forward to receiving your submissions and welcoming you to Maastricht in January 2026.
