The International Centre for Participation Studies was created in 2003 to provide a focus for research and teaching on the relationship between political participation and peace. ICPS is a response to the emergence of new forms and theories of democratic participation and it is working with fellow academics, participatory practitioners and grassroots activists to co-produce knowledge of these social and political change processes.
ICPS is based in the Department of Peace Studies at the University of Bradford, the largest academic centre for the study of peace and conflict in the world.
ICPS provides a space for critical reflection, education and research on all aspects of participatory theory and practice, informed by a commitment to collective action for peace. Our research links theory and practice to explore how participation is thought about and utilised and our work involves practitioners in the co-production of this knowledge. We work at the local, regional and global levels and have extensive links to partner organisations including other academic institutions, local and regional government, NGOs, community organisations and social movements. We have extensive research interests in the North of England and Latin America and an established research profile in East Africa.
The centre has a number of experienced researchers and offers a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for postgraduate study amongst a thriving community of national and international students and scholars.
We welcome proposals to work with other organisations, individuals and networks and we encourage proposals to work with us as potential students, visiting faculty or research partners. Please contact us at info@participationstudies.org
