Third Annual ValEUs Conference: Call for Papers

Invitation to participate in the 3rd Annual ValEUs Conference “Valeus, Democracy and EU Foreign Policy. Paths to a New Policy Agenda” that will be hosted by the European University Viadrina in Frankfurt (Oder) in cooperation with the Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań. 

Frankfurt (Oder)/Słubice, Sept. 29 – Oct. 2, 2026

Organizing committee: Timm Beichelt (European University Viadrina, Frankfurt Oder), Randall Halle (University of Pittsburgh), Nico Hallmann (European University Viadrina, Frankfurt Oder)

The international system is increasingly characterized by shifts in political, economic, and social structures, which challenge state stability and carry significant implications for foreign policy decision-making. In this context, the European Union must navigate an increasingly complex and volatile global landscape. A critical dimension of this process is the role of values in EU foreign policy. Central to the EU's external relations is its commitment to promoting democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. However, in scenarios marked by state fragility, these normative principles are often tested by pragmatic considerations, including the pursuit of stability, security, or strategic alliances.

This call for papers seeks contributions that explore how the EU reconciles its normative ideals with the political realities of engaging with fragile or authoritarian regimes and assess how this balance shapes the effectiveness and legitimacy of EU foreign policy.

All submissions should be sent to hallmann@europa-uni.de by April 30, 2026. 

More information in the official Call for Papers.