Call for Abstracts

In a world facing increasingly complex forms of conflict, the environmental consequences of such struggles are both extensive and pressing. From resource-driven tensions to socio-political upheavals, conflicts of various kinds pose severe and often overlooked threats to ecosystems and natural resources. The destruction of habitats, contamination of vital water and soil resources, deforestation, and the forced displacement of communities are just some examples of how conflict exacerbates environmental degradation. 

This year’s conference seeks to explore this timely and urgent issue, shedding light on the vulnerabilities of our environment and those who protect it amidst diverse conflicts, while highlighting the critical need for its preservation. The X Tarragona International Environmental Law Colloquium (TIEC) aims to foster intellectual exchange and multidisciplinary dialogue on this topic. The colloquium will explore the above-mentioned topic through the following three critical panels:

• Ecocide, the Climate Crisis and Conflicts: Environmental degradation is often both a cause and a consequence of conflict, including armed conflicts and war. This track seeks to examine the role of Environmental law in conflicts over natural resources, the environmental and climate impacts of war, and the legal obligations of states and non-state actors (e.g., multinational enterprises, armed groups, non-governmental organizations) in protecting the environment during and after armed conflicts. Contributions may also explore the role of international humanitarian law in addressing human environmental damage caused by warfare.

• Environmental and Human Rights Defenders and the Criminalization of Environmental Activism: Around the world, environmental defenders face increasing threats, including harassment, violence and legal persecution. This track invites analysis of the legal protections available to environmental activists, the rise of strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs), and the broader implications of criminalizing environmental activism.

• Local Conflicts and Environmental Governance: Good Practices and Regional Solutions: Local conflicts, whether over land use, resource extraction, or urban development, can have profound implications for both the environment and human communities. This track will explore conflicts between local governments, corporations, local communities and indigenous peoples. It will also study how these disputes can lead to environmental degradation, such as deforestation or contamination of water sources, as well as indirect impacts like the displacement of communities. The session will highlight good practices and innovative local and regional solutions where local governments and communities have successfully managed to resolve conflicts in ways that protect both the environment and human rights. Contributions may focus on case studies of conflict resolution, the role of environmental governance in local disputes, and the legal frameworks that support or hinder sustainable outcomes.

The X TIEC aims to provide a forum for junior and early-career researchers with different backgrounds to present and discuss their research and work-in-progress. This event seeks to create a friendly environment for meeting fellow students and colleagues that share a common interest in environmental law and its role in times of conflict.

The X TIEC Organizing Committee invites the submission of abstracts to be considered for oral and poster presentation at the Colloquium. The X TIEC is intended to take place  in-person, but virtual attendees are welcome. Nevertheless, those submitting a poster can only do so in person.

The main language of the X TIEC is English. However, panelists are invited to both submit their abstracts and present their works either in English or Spanish. If accepted, those presenting their work in Spanish are kindly asked to prepare their presentations in English so all attendants will be able to follow and join the discussion.

Those interested in presenting their proposals should submit an abstract of no more than 300 words here. Longer abstracts will not be accepted.

Deadline for abstract submission: 30^th January 2025 (deadline extended). 

Please, submit your abstract HERE.

For further information, please contact TIEC Organizing Committee (tiec@urv.cat).

Join us in Tarragona to catalyze transformative discussions and collectively chart a course toward a just and safe future for people and the planet!