Call for Host

Would your university like to host the UACES 58th Annual Conference 2028?

Shape the Future of European Studies

We are seeking a university in the UK or Europe to host the UACES 58th Anniversary Conference in 2028.

Hosting this landmark conference offers your institution a unique opportunity to contribute to European Studies while showcasing your city's cultural and academic excellence. As we celebrate six decades of advancing European Studies, this conference will be a special milestone event bringing together the UACES community to reflect on our achievements and shape the future of the field.

We envision this 60th Anniversary conference as a hub for innovative discussion, where scholars connect with local communities and partnerships extend beyond the event, creating a lasting legacy for both the host institution and the broader European Studies community.

Find out how to apply here.

Why Host the UACES 60th Anniversary Conference?

Our 60th Anniversary Conference is more than just an academic event; it's a milestone celebration and an opportunity to build networks, foster collaboration and leave a meaningful legacy for the host university and city. Hosting this landmark conference provides your institution with a platform to not only showcase its expertise but also to support up-and-coming scholars in European Studies while being part of UACES' historic journey.

Key Benefits of Hosting the UACES Annual Conference:

Raise the profile of your institution by positioning it as a leading venue for European Studies, attracting scholars, policy-makers, and thought leaders from around the world.
Be part of a historic milestone by hosting UACES' 60th Anniversary Conference, celebrating six decades of excellence in European Studies and contributing to the association's prestigious legacy.
Strengthen ties between global scholars and regional stakeholders, including local government, businesses, and civil society. Hosting the conference can spark meaningful conversations and collaborative projects that benefit both the academic community and the local area.
Leave a mark on your city by connecting the conference to local culture, history and public interests.
Join an extensive network of distinguished universities that have previously hosted the UACES Annual Conference.
Support early-career researchers by providing a platform for emerging scholars to present their work and connect with established academics.
Foster interdisciplinary collaboration across all areas of contemporary European Studies.
Engage your alumni working in European affairs, diplomacy, international organisations and policy-making by inviting them to participate in this milestone event.
Provide student development opportunities through volunteering, networking with leading scholars and exposure to cutting-edge European Studies research.
Create economic impact for your city through hotel bookings, dining, tourism, and related conference activities.
Showcase your research strengths by highlighting your institution's research centres, special collections or expertise in European Studies.

What Are We Looking For from UACES Annual Conference Hosts?

Here are some key practical criteria that we will be looking for in a conference host.

Research Sessions: Space to hold up to 18 concurrent research sessions

Rooms equipped with projectors and computers or HDMI cables

Rooms that can seat 25-40 people

Ideally, these rooms should be in the same building or across two buildings on the same campus
Plenary Sessions: An auditorium that seats 350-400 people

Projector and computer included with the room

Ability to livestream plenary sessions to a virtual audience
Coffee Breaks, Lunches and Receptions: Central space to serve coffee and lunches for up to 500 people

Space to host an exhibition

Space to host a drinks reception for up to 500 people, ideally at a building of local significance

Nearby options for a conference dinner or evening event for 200 people
Publishers' Exhibition and Reception Desk: Publishers' exhibition should be held in the same area as the coffee and lunch breaks

Convenient location for UACES registration and reception desk
Location: Ideally in a city centre, or close to lots of amenities

Good transport connections via train, road and plane

Nearby airport with transfers direct to the city
Accommodation: University or other student accommodation available for delegates to hire (if possible)

Located in a city centre, with a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets
Financial Considerations: Preference given to venues that can offer free or reduced-rate room hire

Other forms of financial support (e.g., from local authorities or tourist boards) make the venue more attractive

Highlight relationships the department or university may have with organisations interested in sponsoring the conference
Local Engagement and Cultural Program: Opportunities to connect the conference with local European heritage, cultural institutions, or community initiatives

Access to museums, historical sites, or cultural venues relevant to European Studies

Relationships with local government, European institutions, or civil society organisations
Technical and Digital Infrastructure: Reliable high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the venue

Technical support staff during the conference

Hybrid/virtual participation capabilities for international delegates who cannot travel

Audio-visual recording capabilities for archiving key sessions
Accessibility and Inclusivity: Full wheelchair accessibility across all conference spaces

Accessible accommodation options nearby

Quiet rooms or prayer spaces

Support for delegates with specific accessibility needs
Sustainability Commitments: Sustainable catering options with vegetarian/vegan choices

Waste reduction and recycling programs

Carbon offsetting initiatives or green travel options

Alignment with environmental sustainability goals
Conference Support Services: Dedicated conference organising team or events office

Experience hosting large academic conferences

On-site registration and information desk capabilities

Name badge printing and materials preparation facilities
Optional Value-Added Elements: University accommodation for delegates (if available)

Welcome materials showcasing the city and region

Optional pre-conference or post-conference tours

Partnerships with local businesses for delegate discounts

How To Apply

The application process involves three stages:

Stage 1: Expression of Interest

Deadline: 31 January 2027

Complete the Expression of Interest Form. This initial form requires basic information about your institution, proposed venue, and why you wish to host the conference.

Stage 2: Detailed Proposal

Deadline: 28 February 2027

Selected applicants will be invited by the UACES Committee to submit a more detailed proposal. This should include comprehensive information about facilities, accommodation, local attractions, financial considerations, and your vision for the conference.

Stage 3: Site Visit

Timing: Spring 2027

Upon acceptance of the detailed proposal, the UACES Office will conduct a site visit to assess the facilities and discuss logistics with your team.

Contact Information

For any questions about hosting the UACES 60th Anniversary Conference 2028, please contact the UACES Office.