Deadline: 20 September 2025
The Arab Political Science Network (APSN) is inviting applications for its annual Research Development Workshop (RDW), focusing this year on Gender and Politics in the MENA region. The program is designed to strengthen research capacity, foster mentorship, and build a scholarly community among graduate students in the region.
Workshop Overview
- Format: 5-month program combining mentorship, writing sessions, and research presentations
- Target Group: PhD and advanced MA students from or based in Arab countries
- Theme: Gender and Politics in MENA
- Languages: English and Arabic
- Application Deadline: 20 September 2025
The program provides one-on-one faculty mentorship, monthly writing workshops, and the chance to present research both online and at an in-person workshop in 2026.
Research Themes
Applicants are encouraged to use gender as an analytical lens to explore questions such as:
- How do regimes use state-led gender reforms to consolidate power?
- What role do legal systems and institutions play in shaping gender dynamics?
- How do laws on personal status, citizenship, or labor reinforce or challenge hierarchies?
- In what ways do individuals and groups resist dominant gender norms?
- What strategies have feminist movements developed, and how have they evolved?
- How do neoliberal reforms impact women’s rights and livelihoods?
Other relevant topics within the scope of gender and politics in MENA are also welcome.
Eligibility and Application Requirements
Applicants must submit their materials by 20 September 2025 via the official application form. Required documents include:
- A two-page CV.
- A 500-word abstract (in Arabic or English) outlining research question(s), methodology, and framework.
- A one-page cover letter highlighting:
- Research goals
- Expected benefits from the program
- Specific areas where mentorship is sought
Selected participants will be notified by the end of September 2025 with full program details.
For further information please see the APSN’s website.
