Call for Papers: 5th Military Welfare History Network Conference

Civil Society, Civic Engagement and Its Impact on Military Welfare

Babeș-Bolyai University in Cluj-Napoca, Romania

The 5th International Conference of the Military Welfare History Network will be hosted by Babeș-Bolyai University in Cluj-Napoca, in Summer 2026 (Thurs 18 to Sat 20 June 2026).

Centring on the theme of “Civil Society, Civic Engagement and Its Impact on Military Welfare”, the conference seeks to explore the transformative influence of civil society (in its institutionalised form), as well as of various other types of civic engagement on the development and evolution of military welfare. This event aims to bring together scholars from history, sociology, military studies, social policy, and related fields to examine how civil society shaped—and was shaped by—the changing practices of welfare within military institutions across different countries and contexts. The main focus will be directed towards the complex and dynamic interactions between civilian organizations, philanthropic initiatives, reformers, public opinion, and state-supported initiatives (including the legal background) and actors in redefining the care, support, and rights provided to serving soldiers, veterans, and their families.

We look forward to papers analysing how shifting societal values, the rise of voluntary associations, advocacy movements, and growing public engagement affected military welfare reform—ranging from healthcare and pensions to education, housing, and psychological support. Proposals engaging critically with the less studied or more troubling aspects of military welfare, including but not limited to the entanglement of veteran support systems with radical nationalism, eugenics, and biopolitical projects are also of interest. We particularly welcome contributions using innovative sources or methodologies and encourage early-career researchers and postgraduate students to apply.

The call for papers  and further details can be found on the Military Welfare History website.

Deadline – 14 March 2026