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From Irish elections to global conflicts: UCC conference to explore today’s political challenges
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- The future of democracy and US presidential politics among topics to be explored.
- The conference marks 25 years of the Government and Political Science BSc degree at UCC.
- Free and open to the public — all welcome to attend.
The future of democracy, global security challenges shaped by war, and electoral politics in Ireland are among the political issues which will be addressed a conference on 17 September at University College Cork (UCC).
The event will take place at the Mardyke Pavilion, UCC, and will feature contributions from experts in Irish and international politics.
Panels will explore the latest developments in US presidential politics; escalation dynamics in Russia's war in Ukraine, and a gender analysis of the 2024 General Election.
The keynote address, ‘Re-imagining Deliberative Democracy in Ireland’, will be delivered by Professor David Farrell of University College Dublin, a specialist in the study of representation, elections, and deliberative mini-publics.
The conference marks 25 years of the Government and Political Science BSc degree and Department of Government and Politics at UCC. The Department is recognised for pioneering research and for a legacy of graduates who shape politics and public affairs in Ireland and beyond.
Professor Andrew Cottey, Professor and EU Jean Monnet Chair in European Political Integration, UCC Department of Government and Politics, said: “At a time of international upheaval, with war, genocide, and major power rivalries shaping global politics, these discussions are more important than ever. Universities have a crucial role to play in analysing events, challenging assumptions, and informing public debate and policy.”
Dr Liam Weeks, Head of UCC Department of Government and Politics, said: “This conference is a chance to reflect on how far we have come over the past 25 years, but also to confront the new realities shaping politics today. From Irish elections to global conflicts, the pace of change is rapid, and our role as a Department is to both analyse these shifts through cutting-edge research and empower graduates to engage with them in Ireland and internationally.”
The conference is open to members of the public – all welcome. It will run from 9am to 4.45pm.
Places are limited and must be booked in advance. Please email government@ucc.ie to register.
View the full programme here.