University of Sussex to host pioneering socio-legal studies conference in 2026
The University of Sussex is set to host the Socio-Legal Studies Association (SLSA) Annual Conference in 2026, continuing a long-standing tradition of gathering leading scholars in the field of socio-legal studies. Scheduled from Monday 30 March to Wednesday 1 April, the conference will take place on the university’s vibrant campus, providing a dynamic venue for intellectual exchange and professional networking.
The SLSA Annual Conference is known for attracting hundreds of international delegates each year, and the 2026 event is expected to uphold this reputation with over 30 regular sessions alongside individual topical discussions. These sessions will address socio-legal themes that are at the forefront of current academic debate, ensuring that the content is both relevant and cutting-edge. The conference also places a strong emphasis on inclusivity, sustainability, and equality, values which are reflected in its organisation and activities.
Social engagement forms a key part of the conference experience, with delegates invited to an informal reception on the opening evening, followed by a gala dinner on the second night. At this gala event, the SLSA annual prize winners will be announced, celebrating outstanding contributions to the socio-legal discipline.
Since its inception in 1990, the SLSA Annual Conference has rotated among different UK institutions, fostering a diverse and rich academic community. The 2026 conference will benefit from the University of Sussex’s location in Brighton & Hove, a city renowned for its cultural vibrancy and excellent connectivity. Just under an hour by rail from London and a brief half-hour journey from Gatwick Airport, Brighton is a convenient and appealing destination for delegates travelling from afar.
The University of Sussex itself holds a position of esteem among British universities, being one of the pioneering institutions established in the 1960s. It is situated near the striking South Downs National Park, providing not only a stimulating academic environment but also an attractive setting for conference attendees. The Sussex Law School, which will host the event, is recognised as one of the UK’s leading law schools. Its interdisciplinary approach and vibrant research environment make it well suited to supporting the development of socio-legal studies, allowing academics to push the boundaries of the field.
The University of Sussex will host the conference in its state-of-the-art facilities, promising a professional and innovative atmosphere for presentations and discussions. Registration and abstract submission for the event will open on Monday 22 September 2025, with further details about the programme and registration to be made available closer to the conference dates.
The SLSA, beyond the Annual Conference, promotes socio-legal studies through a range of activities including an annual free Postgraduate Conference and the Seminar Competition, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing across the discipline. The upcoming 2026 conference is expected to continue this tradition and offer a significant platform for the socio-legal academic community to convene and advance research.
For those interested in participating or seeking more information, the University of Sussex encourages contact through the dedicated conference email, [email protected]. This event represents a key opportunity for academics, practitioners, and students engaged in socio-legal studies to connect, learn, and contribute to the field’s ongoing evolution.