CfP Constitutions for Peace Conference at the University of Miami

Date: 15-16 November, 2025.

Organizers:

Gregory Koger, Director of the Hanley Democracy Center

Regina Paulose, attorney based in the US

Elisenda Calvet-Martínez, Associate Professor of International Law, University of Barcelona

Location: Hanley Democracy Center, University of Miami, Coral Gabels, Florida, US.

In 2024, an engaged group of scholars launched a research initiative exploring the complex intersections between constitutions, peacebuilding, transitional justice, and democratic governance called Constitutions 4 Peace. Constitutional changes can play a key role in building peace and reconciliation in societies that have experienced violent conflict or authoritarian regimes. Understanding how these changes can promote coexistence and the reconstruction of the social fabric is essential to establish solid foundations for sustainable peace.

Drawing on legal and political science frameworks, the group has been developing a conceptual rubric to better understand how constitutional design and reform contribute to sustaining peace—particularly in societies emerging from conflict. The conference will bring together members of the original Working Group and invite new voices to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and collaborative research.

We welcome papers that critically examine how constitutional processes—such as reforms, interim constitutions and new constitutions—can support conflict resolution, institutional legitimacy, and inclusive governance.

Key themes include (but are not limited to):

• Constitutional design in post-conflict settings

• The role of transitional justice in constitutional reform

• Comparative approaches to constitutional peacebuilding

• The relationship between constitutions and peace agreements

• Case studies of constitutional transitions and their outcomes

  
  

Interested persons should submit an abstract here.

Presenters will be required to present a 5-page working paper for the conference which will be published on the Constitutions 4 Peace website.

The deadline for abstracts is September, 15, 2025.

Participants will be notified on or by October 5th whether their papers have been accepted for presentation.

All costs related to the conference and travel will need to be self-funded.

There are no scholarships available for participation/travel.