Researchers are invited to submit abstracts for the ECREA 2026 pre-conference titled “New paths and future trajectories in digital (dis)connection studies: unpacking the post-digital”, taking place on 7 September 2026 at Masaryk University in Brno, Czech Republic.
This fifth edition of the pre-conference offers an opportunity for scholars at all career stages to reflect on the evolving role of digital disconnection in contemporary societies. The initiative aims to explore how disconnection is being reshaped by emerging public debates and policy measures, such as smartphone bans in schools and age restrictions on social media use.
The call highlights the need to critically examine how these transformations are influencing both research agendas and lived experiences, particularly among younger populations navigating forms of imposed or negotiated disconnection.
Contributions are welcomed on a wide range of topics, including:
- theoretical, methodological, and empirical developments in digital disconnection studies;
- cross-cultural and historical perspectives;
- social, emotional, and psychological dimensions of disconnection;
- institutional, political, and economic influences;
- intersectional approaches to disconnection practices;
- critical perspectives on the role of public and private actors.
The pre-conference is organised by an international team of scholars, including Ana Jorge (Lusófona University / CICANT), alongside researchers from institutions such as the University of Montreal, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Sapienza University of Rome, and Ghent University, among others.
Abstract submission
Abstracts (max. 350 words) should be submitted by 1 April 2026 via the online form (here). Decisions will be communicated by 23 April 2026.
The pre-conference is organised within the framework of the European Communication Research and Education Association (ECREA) 2026 conference, and participation is free of charge. Consult more information here.