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.
Brighton, the location for our 2026 conference, is an inclusive, free-thinking city in the heart of Sussex. With a blend of modern culture and exotic architecture, sea and countryside, you won’t be short of things to do.
01 Conference highlights
- Three days of inspiring, provocative and diverse panels and roundtables
- Keynote lecture by a world-renowned academic (announcement coming in October!)
- Public lecture the evening prior to the conference
- Conference drinks reception on Wednesday 3 June at the Brighton Centre
- Social programme including a Postgraduate Network/first-timer meet up, and an early-morning 5km run around Brighton.
02 About Brighton
With its majestic Regency squares and crescents, iconic Royal Pavilion and famous piers, today Brighton is as well-known for being a welcoming and diverse city with a passion for culture, creativity and sustainability as it is for its historic landmarks.
You will find art, live music and entertainment on tap, plus an ever-growing abundance of independent shops, boutique hotels and award-winning restaurants. Apart from having eight miles of beach on its doorstep, and being bang in the middle of a UNESCO World Biosphere Region, Brighton also borders the magnificent South Downs National Park, which is itself an International Dark Sky Reserve.
Brighton is also a great base from which to explore the historic towns of Lewes and Arundel with their medieval castles, stunningly beautiful Cuckmere Haven and the Seven Sisters Country Park, the Bluebell Railway and numerous Sussex vineyards, that are now rivalling the Champagne region in France for their award-winning sparkling wines.
Find out more on the Visit Brighton website.
The conference venue
The 2026 conference takes place at the Brighton Centre on Brighton seafront, with additional rooms at The Maldron Hotel just across the street. The vast majority of activities - including panels, roundtables, the exhibitor hall and refreshment breaks - will be located at the Brighton Centre, and BISA will take over the entirety of the building.
The Brighton Centre is light, airy and spacious. It boasts panoramic sea views, easy access and was awarded Silver in the 'Accessibility and Inclusivity' category in the Beautiful South Awards 2024. There are a range of spaces to work independently or catch up with colleagues and friends when you aren’t attending panels. If you prefer to go outside the venue there are plenty of coffee shops, restaurants, bars, and a wealth of local attractions including museums and the arts within a few minutes walk.
04 Costs and bursaries
The BISA 2026 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.
05 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.
06 Reserve a meeting 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.
Top photo by Pavel Marianov on Unsplash