We are pleased to invite paper proposals for the panel Protests in Non-Democratic Regimes, at the ipb Annual Conference 2025 at the University of Bremen on October 1–2, 2025.

This panel seeks to explore the dynamics of political activism, protests, and social movements in authoritarian, hybrid, illiberal, or de-democratizing political regimes. We welcome submissions that advance both theoretical and empirical understandings of contentious politics in restrictive political contexts.

Possible topics of interest include, but are not limited to:
+ Protest strategies and outcomes in non-democratic regimes
+ The role of media in shaping or hindering mobilization efforts
+ Comparative analyses of social movements in democratic and non-democratic countries
+ Repressive techniques and their effects on protest participation
+ Role of pro-government rallies in non-democratic regimes

We particularly encourage interdisciplinary perspectives and innovative methodological approaches. Papers may focus on macro-, meso-, or micro-level dynamics of protest and repression.

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Abstract submission deadline: May 15, 2025
Submissions must be made via the online form: http://unihb.eu/ipb_conference_2025
Conference Fee: 60 € (10 € reduced fee)

A limited number of grants for (partial) reimbursement of travel costs is available. Inquiries about grants should be addressed to Heiko Pleines (pleines@uni-bremen.de) and should include the paper abstract to be submitted.