“Feeling” Norms: Emotional Resonance and the Resilience of International Norms in Times of Crisis: APSA Virtual Research Group Workshop
APSA 2026 Virtual Research Meeting
April 15 – April 16, 2026 (EST) | Apply to Research Group Workshop
Application Deadline: February 25, 2026
Workshop Organizers: Carlotta Maria Minnella (European University Institute); Melissa E. Tornari (European University Institute)
This Research Group examines the resilience of international norms by exploring how emotional resonance shapes belief in and adherence to norms during periods of geopolitical crisis. The workshop builds on emerging scholarship that challenges traditional theories of norm internalization in International Relations by focusing on how norms generate affective responses among foreign policy elites and the public. Participants will explore how emotional reactions influence the perceived legitimacy, strength, and durability of international norms across issue areas such as climate governance, human rights protection, nuclear non-proliferation, refugee protection, and global political polarization.
During the Workshop
Workshop sessions will include research paper presentations, academic and policy-focused discussant feedback, and structured discussions focused on theoretical development and policy implications. The workshop will combine contributions from invited scholars and selected applicants, with opportunities for participants to present research, serve as discussants, and engage in collaborative discussions on theoretical innovation and methodological approaches. The organizers particularly encourage interdisciplinary and multi-method contributions, including survey experiments, discourse analysis, large-N empirical studies, and other approaches examining the emotional foundations of international norm resilience.
The workshop aims to generate several collaborative scholarly and policy-relevant outputs. Contributions will support the development of an edited volume and serve as the foundation for a Horizon grant proposal focused on global governance and international norm resilience. The Research Group is also designed to strengthen collaboration between academic researchers and policy practitioners, supporting broader engagement, research impact, and future interdisciplinary partnerships.
How to Apply
The submission system is open for workshop participant applications! The application deadline is Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Pacific.
Research Group Workshops are the central feature of the APSA Virtual Research Meeting, designed to bring scholars together over two days of collaborative engagement, interactive discussion, and joint research development. Each Research Group will meet for eight 90-minute sessions across both days, with participants expected to engage throughout the full workshop series.
Due to limited capacity and overlapping schedules, participants may only apply to one Research Group. To apply, candidates must submit a Statement of Interest tailored to their selected workshop by the deadline and are encouraged to review the workshop descriptions carefully before applying.
The American Political Science Association’s 2026 Virtual Research Meeting, held on April 15 & 16, 2026, is an annual two-day online event provides a forum for scholars worldwide interested in sharing their research, receiving in-depth feedback, and creating partnerships and networks for future collaboration. Stay tuned for registration! Visit the website to learn more.
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