In a time marked by intensifying global conflicts, resurgent nationalism, and societal polarization, questions of who “we” are, who is included and who is excluded, have become increasingly urgent. From grassroots movements to online communities, collective identities are being reshaped in ways that both challenge and reinforce existing power structures. Understanding the psychological processes that underpin these dynamics is crucial for making sense of contemporary social life and its conflicts, solidarities, and possibilities for change.

We invite submissions for blitz talks (5 to 10 minutes) that examine the role of culture, power, and resistance in shaping group identities, belonging, and exclusion. We welcome contributions from psychology and related fields (e.g., sociology, anthropology, political science) that engage in the broadest sense with questions such as:

• How do individuals come to identify with a “we”?
• How are collective identities maintained and contested in different cultural and political contexts?
• In what ways do power structures influence collective identity formation?
• How are norms, values, and boundaries negotiated within groups and societies?
• What psychological processes underpin resistance, solidarity, and social change?

We welcome submissions that explore these questions empirically or theoretically or both, examine the construct at various levels of analysis (i.e., individual, group, local, national, global), use multiple methods (i.e., quantitative, qualitative, mixed methods), and disciplinary perspectives. We especially encourage PGRs and ECRs to apply. The workshop aims to provide a space to share research and research ideas, to connect with peers, and engage in fruitful and constructive conversations. 

Workshop Format:
The workshop consists of invited keynote speakers and presentations by participants. The workshop aims to bring together scholars from different departments across the University of Sussex and create a space to discuss research and develop ideas for collaborations. 

Submission Guidelines:
Please submit an abstract of up to 250 words outlining your research, including objectives, methods (if applicable), and key insights.

How to submit your abstract: 
To participate in the workshop, please submit a short abstract (max. 250 words) by using the form below until May 5^th, 2026. If you have any questions, please contact Rebekka Kesberg r.kesberg@sussex.ac.uk  

Submit abstract now 

Deadline for Submissions: May 5th, 2025 

Attending without presentation:

You are also welcome to attend without presenting. We aim to create a space in which researchers interested in the topic can come together and connect. Please register your interest until May 15^th 2026, so that we can plan accordingly. 

Important Notes: 

Priority for blitz talks will be given to PGRs and ECRs. 

There is no participation fee. 

Refreshments will be provided. 

Keynote speakers: 

Dr Maja Kutlaca, Durham University, https://www.durham.ac.uk/staff/maja-kutlaca/

Dr Feras Alkabani, University of Sussex, https://profiles.sussex.ac.uk/p205162-feras-alkabani

Dr Chris Cocking, University of Brighton, https://research.brighton.ac.uk/en/persons/chris-cocking/

Niranjan J. Nampoothiri, University of Sussex, https://www.ids.ac.uk/people/niranjan-j-nampoothiri/

Organizers: 

Dr Rebekka Kesberg, School of Psychology, University of Sussex, United Kingdom

Dr Özden Melis Uluğ, School of Psychology, University of Sussex, United Kingdom

Funding Information 

This workshop received support from the School of Psychology.

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By: Rebekka Kesberg
Last updated: Thursday, 23 April 2026