Historical Continuities and Current Challenges in Alevi Studies
The Third Biennial International Conference of Alevism Studies will take place at the University of Westminster, London, on 23–25 June 2027. Hosted by the Centre for Social Justice Research, the conference invites scholars from across disciplines to explore historical continuities and contemporary challenges affecting Alevi communities.
Building on the previous two conferences, the event provides a platform for established scholars and early-career researchers to exchange findings, develop academic connections and receive constructive feedback on their work. It encourages theoretically informed and empirically grounded contributions that engage with Alevism through multidisciplinary and decolonial perspectives.
This year’s conference addresses the implications of political and social transformations in the Middle East for transnational Alevi communities. Particular attention will be given to questions of exclusion, persecution, equal citizenship and recognition, alongside the changing forms of religious, cultural and political life among Alevis in their places of origin and across the diaspora.
Conference themes
Contributions are invited on the following topics:
- Alevi history and theology
- Alevi diaspora and youth engagement
- Sexuality and gender in Alevism and Alevi organisations
- Remembering, collective memory and activism
- Time, space and ritual in Alevism
- Pedagogy and education on Alevism
- Ethnic and linguistic diversity among Alevis
- Digitisation of Alevi historical materials and oral stories
- Alevi music, literature and arts
- Alevi politics of representation and recognition
Papers addressing other relevant topics and panel proposals are also welcome. Early-career researchers are particularly encouraged to participate.
Submission guidelines
Applicants should submit an abstract of 750–1,000 words, including three keywords, the research question, methodology and key findings. Submissions should also include a 100-word biography, stating the applicant’s institutional or organisational affiliation.
Please send submissions to Dr. Berfin Emre at b.emre@lcc.arts.ac.uk.
- Abstract submission deadline: 15 December 2026
- Notification of acceptance: By 30 January 2027
- Conference dates: 23–25 June 2027
Venue and participation
The conference will be held at The Pavilion, University of Westminster, 115 New Cavendish Street, London, W1W 6UW.
There is no conference fee, and refreshments will be provided for all sessions. Limited accommodation support may be available, subject to funding approval.
The conference is organised by Umit Cetin, Celia Jenkins and Tufan Bozkurt from the School of Social Sciences, University of Westminster, and Berfin Emre Çetin from the University of the Arts London.
View the full call for papers on the University of Westminster website.
