The CIDRA project invites scholars, researchers, and practitioners from Europe, Africa, and beyond to submit papers for its inaugural academic conference in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. This event aims to foster dialogue, advance scholarly collaboration, and inform advocacy initiatives between Europe and Africa. Organized by 13 European and African Institutions, the conference will explore transregional challenges and opportunities, contributing to a sustainable and equitable global order amidst shifting geopolitical dynamics.

Conference Theme

Regional and Transregional Dimensions in Energy, Transportation, Law and Policymaking. The conference will nevertheless be open also to a wide range of topics related to issues of common interest for both Africa and the EU, such as:

Multilateralism in the Face of Bilateralism and Geopolitical Influence, which may address the following research questions: a) how can multilateral frameworks effectively counter the rise of fragmented, bilateral agreements with imperial powers; b) what mechanisms can strengthen multilateral institutions in promoting cooperative international policies; c) how may regional institutions, such as the African Union (AU) and the European institutions, contribute to fostering multilateral dialogue and cooperation; d) What are the successes and limitations of regional organizations in shaping global governance; e) how does hierarchy in decision- making processes affect the efficiency and legitimacy of multilateral agreements.

Government Policies and Decision-Making Systems, which may address the following research questions: a) strategic resource allocation across governance layers; b) provision of public goods across governance levels; c) strategies for enhanced collective decision- making; d) harnessing the potential of artificial intelligence in governance; empowering smallholder farmers to increase agricultural production for improved food security; e) what kind of theoretical and practical instruments do we need to improve democratic participation and legitimacy in collective decision making? 

Energy Security and Regional Cooperation: sustainable energy strategies for Africa: a) What can be learned from EU Policy frameworks? b) The Role of regional energy markets in reducing dependence on external sources and c) renewable energy financing and investment opportunities for Africa-Europe Cooperation.

Digital and Green Transitions: Opportunities for Regional Integration: a) Leveraging digital transformation for economic growth and governance efficiency. b) How can Africa and Europe collaborate on technology and innovation policies? c) Strategies for regional carbon neutrality and sustainable economic models.

Migration, Mobility and Regional Stability: a) The socio-economic impacts of migration policies in Africa and Europe; b) Pathways for legal migration and labor mobility agreements between Africa and the EU and c) Cross-border challenges such as security, human rights and governance responses. Financing sustainable development: a) EU-Africa financial partnership in infrastructure, green energy and digital innovation. b) The effectiveness of public-private partnerships in financing development projects in Africa.

The Role of Regionalism in Addressing Global Crises: a) How can African and European Regional Organizations collaborate to respond to pandemics, climate change and economic shocks? b) Lessons from the EU’s crisis management strategies for African Regional bodies like SADC, ECOWAS and IGAD? c) The impact of regional economic policies on resilience against global recessions and geopolitical instability.

Intellectual Relationship and Educational Challenges: a) How can Africa and EU improve their mutual understanding? b) What kind of education and research infrastructure would be necessary to create multi-layer cultural identity?

Submission Guidelines
• Abstract: 300–500 words outlining the paper’s background, objectives, methodology, and contribution to CIDRA themes.
• Full Paper: 6,000–8,000 words (including references), formatted in APA style.
• Language: British English.
• Eligibility: Open to academics, graduate students, and professionals from diverse disciplines. Submissions from African and European scholars are particularly encouraged.
• Submission Process: Submit via the conference email: cidranetwork@gmail.com. Late submissions will not be considered.

Review and Publication
• Abstracts will be peer-reviewed by a scientific committee coordinated by SIMAD University. Authors with accepted Abstracts will be invited to submit full papers.
• Accepted papers will be presented at the conference and considered for publication in a post-event volume, edited by Roma Tre University and CEU San Pablo University.

Key Dates
• Submission Deadline: November 30, 2025
• Notification of Acceptance: December, 2025
• Final Paper Submission: March 15, 2026
• Conference Dates: April 15 -16, 2026

Why Participate?
This conference offers a platform to:
• Contribute to a pioneering Europe-Africa academic network.
• Engage with stakeholders including NGOs, policymakers, and private sector actors.
• Shape research and advocacy for sustainable development and regional integration.
• Publication opportunities for quality papers. Conference Venue

The Conference will be hosted by the University of Dar es Salaam, School of Economics at the New Library Auditorium Hall (Visit University of Dar es Salaam Website: https://www.udsm.ac.tz/ ). The University of Dar es salaam is the oldest public university in Tanzania. It is situated on the western side of the city of Dar es salaam, occupying 1,625 acres on the observation hill, 13 kilometers from the city Centre.

Contact For inquiries, email cidranetwork@gmail.com or visit cidra-network.com

Call for Application