1st NextGen Legal Scholars Conference

Law in a World of Uncertainty: Challenging the Foundations, Reimagining the Future

The Faculty of Law and Criminology of the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) is proud to announce the very first edition of the NextGen Legal Scholars Conference (NLSC). This doctoral conference will take place on Friday March 20th 2026 in Brussels (BE), featuring a fully in-person programme of keynote speeches and thematic panels.

NLSC 2026 invites predoctoral and early postdoctoral legal researchers (within 2 years of finishing PhD) to reflect on the evolving role of law in times of structural uncertainty. Global crises are challenging the capacity of legal systems to maintain justice and stability. Ongoing wars and occupations have raised complex international law questions, such as the legality of interventions, state sovereignty, and the protection of human rights during armed conflicts. Populist and authoritarian regimes are continuously contesting democratic values and the rule of law, both on a domestic and international level. Deepening socioeconomic inequalities have heightened legal concerns about access to healthcare, education, and housing. Artificial intelligence and other technological disruptions raise questions from a data and tax law perspective. Above all, climate change continues to be one of the most urgent challenges of our time, prompting legal questions regarding environmental protection, responsibility for climate damages, and the role of (international) law.

In the spirit of VUB’s mission of freedom in research, critical thinking, and social engagement, NLSC 2026 offers young legal researchers the opportunity to connect with peers, share ideas, and present ongoing work or research proposals in an open and inclusive environment. We especially encourage contributions that question traditional legal paradigms and propose fresh and forward-looking approaches across all legal disciplines – including public and constitutional law, EU and international law, economic law, environmental law, criminal law, and legal history. Participants are welcome to submit topics beyond the examples listed above.

How to submit?

Your abstract (max. 500 words, including the title) and short biography (max. 150 words) can be submitted directly via the registration form (orange button on the right). The deadline is January 30th 2026, 23u59. Acceptance of the abstract will be communicated at the latest in the week of February 2nd 2026. Participants are not required to submit a draft paper, and no common publication is envisaged.

It is possible to attend the conference without presenting. Participation is free, but registration is required for both presenters and attendees.