Call for Papers: Witchcraft Accusations and Human Rights

INAWARA (International Network against Witchcraft Accusations and Ritual Attacks) invites paper and panel proposals for an international conference on Witchcraft Accusations and Human Rights: Stakeholder Responses to UN Resolution 47/8, to be held at the University of Livingstonia, Mzuzu, Malawi, on 10–11 November 2026.

In July 2021, the UN Human Rights Council adopted Resolution 47/8 on the elimination of harmful practices related to accusations of witchcraft and ritual attacks (HPAWRA). The Resolution represents the culmination of sustained advocacy by international, regional and local stakeholders and expresses deep concern that accusations of witchcraft have resulted in serious human rights violations, including killings, mutilation, trafficking, torture and social stigmatisation, while urging States to take all necessary measures to eliminate such practices in a manner consistent with freedom of religion or belief.

While Resolution 47/8 is directed primarily at States, its effective implementation depends heavily on the actions, cooperation and accountability of multiple stakeholders. Civil society organisations, churches and other faith-based institutions, traditional and community leaders, researchers, educators, health professionals and international actors all play critical roles in shaping responses at local, national and international levels.

The conference will focus on the roles, responsibilities and experiences of stakeholders in responding to Resolution 47/8, particularly welcoming contributions that examine concrete experiences, successful initiatives and persistent challenges faced by stakeholders working on the ground, as well as critical reflections on coordination, legitimacy, data gathering and power in responses to HPAWRA.

Proposals of up to 250 words, along with a short bio of no more than 100 words, should be submitted by 31 March 2026 to Professor Miranda Forsyth at miranda.forsyth@anu.edu.au, with the subject line: INAWARA Conference 2026.

For full conference details, including themes and participation information, please visit the INAWARA website.