PSA26: Political Studies Futures

30 March – 1 April 2026, Oxford

Save the date! 

We are pleased to announce that the PSA’s 2026 international annual conference will take place in Oxford, from Monday 30 March to Wednesday 1 April 2026 at venues in the heart of the city. The main conference hub will be in the Examination Schools, with sessions and events also taking place nearby at St Catherine’s College and Wadham College.

The PSA’s annual conference is a rewarding, and popular event for those researching, teaching, studying, or practicing politics, political studies, international relations, and related disciplines. Hosting over 200 panels, keynotes, workshops, and professional development opportunities, and attended by a wide range of international academics, students, and professionals the three-day conference is a unique and valuable opportunity for delegates to share research, exchange ideas, and broaden networks.

Commenting on PSA26, PSA Chair Professor Rose Gann said:

I am excited about the prospect of holding our next flagship conference in Oxford. The theme Political Studies Futures flows directly from member feedback received in the development of the PSA’s 2025-28 Strategic Plan. PSA members expressed a desire to discuss the shape of the discipline and its boundaries in what is an increasingly interdisciplinary landscape and diverse disciplinary space. I look forward to the opportunity for delegates to explore and discuss this important theme, the challenges it presents as well as the opportunities it provides for academics to create positive change in the world.”

PSA Chief Executive Michelle Doyle Wildman added:

On the back of a brilliant PSA25 in Birmingham I am delighted we are already looking forward to our next annual conference; an opportunity to come together to further our work, develop relationships and create impact. We will be inviting expressions of interest in helping us convene and deliver this conference very soon. Do consider steeping forward to be part of this brilliant experience.”

Watch this space for further information and updates about the upcoming #PSA26 programme and calls, including expressions of interest to join a new conference academic programming team.

The PSA conference is one of the best conferences I have ever attended - excellent organisation high quality presentations and discussions. I am looking forward to the next one!”
PSA25 Delegate from our feedback survey

PSA26 Key dates and deadlines:

  • Summer 2025 – Call for Papers Open

  • Early October 2025 – Paper proposal deadline

  • Late October 2025 – Panels proposed

  • Early November 2025 – Panels confirmed

  • December 2025 – Registration open

  • December 2025 – Exhibitor & sponsor bookings open

  • February 2026 – Early Bird registration deadline

  • February 2026 – PSA26 programme & panel listings announced

  • February 2026 – Conference exhibitors announced

  • March 2026 – Registration deadline

  • 30 March – 1 April 2026 – Conference