INTRODUCTION
The world is moving toward 2040 under the pressure of accelerating and converging transformations. Global power is no longer defined by a single dominant pole, but by a multipolar and volatile system shaped by technological acceleration, strategic competition, and deep societal transitions. Rising authoritarianism, hybrid conflicts, cyber-threats, large-scale dis- and misinformation, and climate-induced instability are reshaping the conditions of political, economic, and social cooperation. The erosion of international norms and international humanitarian law in armed conflicts, rising polarization and threats to democratic institutions and multilateral cooperation, across the globe are changing how problems are approached.
Traditional mechanisms of governance will likely be insufficient to cope with this new landscape. In this context, negotiation, mediation, and social dialogue will become even more vital — not only to resolve disputes, but to govern complexity, align fragmented actors, and design sustainable long-term solutions. Looking ahead, where will we be in terms of negotiations as a tool fifteen years from now, in 2040?
The European Negotiation Conference (ENC 2026) aims to position itself as a European hub where researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and civil society can discuss and develop new actions towards the role of negotiation in this new context. The ENC is designed to offer a European, inclusive and interdisciplinary perspective on negotiation and conflict resolution.
KEY OBJECTIVES
- Facilitate cross-disciplinary collaboration among researchers, trainers, practitioners, and policymakers.
- Showcase European contributions to negotiation and mediation theory and practice.
- Promote innovative tools and methodologies to address global and organisational complexity through negotiation.
- Strengthen the interface between academic research and professional practice in diplomacy, business, labour relations, conflict management, and societal transformation.
TARGET AUDIENCE
- Academics and Researchers: contribute cutting-edge studies and analyses.
- Practitioners (business, law, CSR, public policy, NGOs among others): share best practices and case studies.
- Civil Society Representatives: engage in dialogue on societal and humanitarian challenges.
- Trainers and Consultants: present innovative pedagogical tools and methods.
- Graduate Students and Early-Career Scholars: showcase emerging ideas and build networks.
LOCATION
Sciences Po, 1 rue Saint-Thomas-d’ Aquin, 75007 Paris
In collaboration with the Revue Négociations. 
