Researchers from the Dutch Caribbean are invited to contribute to the international conference
CURAÇAO, – The Call for Abstracts has opened for the 21st Islands of the World Conference 2027. The international conference will take place in Curaçao from 6–10 June 2027 under the theme: “Navigating Challenges, Building Global Resilience: Island Solutions.”
The 21st Islands of the World Conference 2027 will bring together researchers, policymakers, professionals, students, civil-society organisations and representatives of island communities from across the world. Participants will exchange knowledge about the challenges facing islands and, in particular, the innovative solutions being developed within island societies.
Researchers from Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Saba, St. Eustatius and St. Maarten are strongly encouraged to submit an abstract and bring the experiences, knowledge and perspectives of the Dutch Caribbean into the international discussion.
Possible topics include climate resilience, disaster preparedness, sustainable development, governance, health, migration, culture and heritage, tourism, economic development, energy, food and water security, nature conservation and community-based innovation. Research from different academic disciplines is welcome, including contributions that engage with practical experience, policy or community-based knowledge.
“Island communities are often discussed primarily in terms of their vulnerabilities. With the Islands of the World Conference 2027, we also want to highlight the knowledge, creativity and solutions that originate on islands themselves,” says Dr. Renske Pin, Chair of the 21st Islands of the World Conference 2027 Local Organising Committee. “Hosting this conference in Curaçao creates an important opportunity to connect the Dutch Caribbean with researchers and island communities from around the world.”
The conference will include keynote presentations, parallel academic sessions, discussions, networking opportunities and visits through which participants can become acquainted with Curaçao and local island initiatives.
The International Small Islands Studies Association (ISISA) is an international network dedicated to the study of islands and island societies. Its Islands of the World conferences connect academic research with policy, practice and the lived experiences of island communities.
Abstract submission deadline: 15 October 2026
Information about the submission procedure and conference is available at:
www.2027isisa.com
www.2027isisa.com/abstracts/
