​The Arab Center for Research and Policy Studies (ACRPS) is pleased to announce the call for applications for the seventh International Winter School (IWS7) titled "The ‘Post-Liberal Moment’: A Paradigm Shift or a Passing Trend?" The event will be held from 10 to 15 January 2026 in Doha, Qatar.

The IWS is an annual program that seeks to provide an in-depth and critical look at selected topics. It offers an opportunity for participants to network with international and regional academics, gain substantive knowledge, and receive feedback from renowned scholars.

IWS7 aims to engage theoretical and empirical research exploring the contemporary challenges facing liberal democracy in the Global North, its resilience and adaptability, and broader implications for the international order. Additionally, the school will examine related themes such as the resurgence of authoritarianism and the future of human rights in the Global South. We invite submissions from advanced PhD candidates and early career scholars from various social sciences and humanities disciplines worldwide.

Topics of interest include, but are not limited to, theoretical perspectives on post-liberalism; the resilience and adaptability of liberalism; nativism, identity politics, and post-liberal societies; prospects of a post-liberal international order; sovereignty, economic nationalism, and protectionism; the future of inclusive citizenship; the global resurgence of authoritarianism; electoral authoritarianism in the Global North; legitimacy crises within liberal democracies; and the decline of civic space and academic freedom. Proposals covering other relevant topics are also welcome. Click here for the full concept note and list of the school’s suggested topics.

The program also includes an engaging social program, featuring visits to Doha’s most notable landmarks, renowned museums, and a trip to the desert—activities particularly enjoyable during the winter months.

Eligibility Criteria:

• PhD candidates in social sciences and humanities.
• Recent PhD graduates and early career academics.

Application Procedures:

Eligible candidates interested in applying should submit the following:

• Online application form. This should be accompanied by an up-to-date CV, an abstract of the proposed paper (maximum 500 words). The abstract should outline the research questions, the context, theoretical framework, and the proposed methodology. The abstract should be submitted no later than 22 August 2025.
• At least one academic reference. The referee should fill out the recommendation form available on this link and send it directly to the IWS email (winter.school@dohainstitute.edu.qa).
• Optional: a writing sample (a previous research paper or published article).

The school will notify all applicants about the status of their applications by email.

Please note:

• Accepted applicants should submit a research project in the form of a paper (maximum 6000 words – excluding footnotes and reference) by 1 November 2025. Published papers will not be accepted.
• The approval of the abstract does not automatically guarantee participation in the school.
• The paper will be reviewed. The school will notify you whether your research project is accepted or not.
• Selected projects will be invited to contribute to an edited volume after benefiting from extensive feedback provided by distinguished scholars and engaging discussions with fellow participants during the school’s sessions.
• Accommodation is provided for all accepted applicants for the duration of the program.
• Funding for travel expenses is available on a competitive basis.
• For inquires related to the conference, please contact: winter.school@dohainstitute.edu.qa

General Information:

Date: 10- 15 January 2026.

Location: Arab Center for Research and Policy Studies, Qatar.

Language of the IWS: English.