Call for papers: Humanitarianism Under Attack

The Journal of International Humanitarian Action invites scholarly contributions for its special collection, Humanitarianism Under Attack. This issue seeks to critically examine the evolving nature of crises and humanitarian responses, questioning the future of the humanitarian system and the role of local actors in crisis-affected regions. Submissions are encouraged from diverse disciplines — such as political science, law, anthropology, sociology, development studies and philosophy — and from both scholars and practitioners. The collection particularly welcomes perspectives from the Global South, challenges to dominant paradigms, and innovative conceptual or methodological approaches. This initiative aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and promotes inclusive, open-access research.

As a fully Open Access journal, the Journal of International Humanitarian Action ensures that all published articles are freely available online to readers worldwide without subscription fees or access barriers. To support this model, authors of accepted papers in this collection are required to pay an Article Processing Charge (APC), which is currently: £1,040 / USD $1,390 / €1,200 (plus applicable taxes). However, Springer Nature (the publisher of the Journal of International Humanitarian Action) firmly believes that financial constraints should not hinder the publication of meaningful research. In line with its commitment to equitable access and global scholarly participation, APC waivers or discounts are available on request for accepted papers from authors who require financial support, particularly those based in the Global South. Please note: All submissions will undergo rigorous double blind peer review, and editorial decisions will be made independently of funding status.

Timeline

Abstracts of 250 words will be accepted on a rolling basis, up until 31 March 2026. Final submissions are due by 30 June 2026. Finalized papers will be published on a rolling basis.

Guest editors

• Dennis Dijkzeul, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany
• Antonio Donini, Tufts University, United States of America
• Dorothea Hilhorst, Erasmus University, Netherlands
• Themrise Khan, Independent researcher, Canada
• Iguma Wakenge, ISDR Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo