About the conference
Join a dynamic community of specialists from around the world to discuss, debate, and advance the field of international studies. Whether you're presenting your latest research, seeking insightful feedback, or simply looking to engage in thought-provoking discussions, our conference offers something for everyone.
This is your opportunity to expand your knowledge, collaborate with fellow academics and practitioners, and connect with leading publishers and editors. Known for its inclusive, friendly atmosphere, BISA welcomes everyone, from seasoned experts to curious newcomers. You don’t have to be presenting a paper to attend – all are welcome.
In Belfast, the location for our 50th anniversary conference in 2025, you'll find fascinating walking, bus and taxi tours, cultural escapes, scientific exhibitions and literary inspirations. Not to mention the superb shopping, beautiful landmarks and top-class entertainment.
01 Conference highlights
- Three days of inspiring, provocative and diverse panels and roundtables
- Keynote lecture by Professor Roland Bleiker
- Public lecture given by Professor Cythia Enloe on 'What feminists reveal when they investigate masculinities: The case of military 'manpower'', co-sponsored by the Senator George J. Mitchell Institute for Global Peace, Security and Justice and the Centre for Gender in Politics
- Roundtable on gender, peace and security involving members of the Northern Women’s Coalition and feminist activists
- Conference reception on Wednesday 18 June at Titanic Belfast. Titanic Belfast is the world's largest Titanic visitor experience. BISA delegates with a valid conference ticket will receive free admission to the exhibition galleries on the evening of 18 June from 6pm, before heading up to the reception. The reception venue boasts stunning views of the Slipways and Belfast Lough, where the world famous liner was designed, built and launched. There’ll also be photo opportunities aplenty on the replica of the liner's Grand Staircase
- Social programme including a Postgraduate Network drinks and pizza evening, and an early-morning Belfast run.
02 About Belfast
Discover the Titanic and Maritime heritage, Game of Thrones territory or take a road trip to find the wonders that lie beyond Belfast. Each area of Belfast has its own character and charm, and its own unique variety of shops, restaurants, cafes, museums and attractions. Located within walking distance of the conference you can find Belfast City Hall, Belfast Cathedral, The Dome, Ulster Museum and many more. Take a walking or taxi tour to see some of the main cultural and historical sites.
For a city the size of Belfast the choice of places to eat is surprising. Everything from fine dining, brasseries and bistros to gastro pubs, cafes, coffee shops and some of the best fish and chips around is available. You can discover delicious flavours and locally made products at one of Belfast’s top markets.
As the gateway to Northern Ireland, Belfast is perfectly positioned for sightseeing tours to Giant’s Causeway, Game of Thrones filming locations and road trips beyond Belfast.
The conference venues
The 2025 50th anniversary conference takes place at the Europa hotel in central Belfast, with additional rooms at Grand Central Hotel and The Assembly Rooms. The vast majority of activities - including panels, roundtables, the exhibitor hall and refreshment breaks - will be located at the Europa, and BISA will take over the entirety of their conference and public spaces. Some panels and roundtables will take place just a few minutes’ walk away at Grand Central and The Assembly Rooms.
All venues have WiFi and are fully accessible. The travel between venues is flat and suitable for wheelchairs. Hastings Hotels, the group of hotels of which the Europa and Grand Central are part, are committed to sustainability.
The Europa has a range of spaces to work independently or catch up with colleagues and friends when you aren’t attending panels. Step outside to find coffee shops, restaurants, bars, and a wealth of local attractions including museums and the arts.
03 Costs and bursaries
The BISA 2025 conference is competitively priced with up to 39% discount on the standard rate for BISA members. There are also significant discounts for early-career researchers, global south scholars and students.
04 Access and support
We are committed to providing all reasonable support to make our events accessible. We also promote equality, diversity and safety. Read our dedicated support, childcare and Code of Conduct pages for more information.
05 Reserve a room
Are you a working group looking to book your AGM, or an exhibitor wanting to hold a reception? Let us know your room booking requirements using the link below. Rooms will be allocated on a first-come-first-served basis so please complete the booking form as soon as possible.
We are grateful for funding from the Belfast and Northern Ireland Conference Subvention Scheme to help put on #BISA2025.