The call for papers for the next COCAG conference held at Escola Superior de Educação – Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Portugal on May 6-7, 2026 is now open.
The current global context is complex and precarious, where the Anthropocene, the spectre of a new Cold War, economic instability, and the rise of AI with the attendant possibility of mass unemployment, present existential challenges to humanity. In such a context ‘career’ and career guidance policy and practice are required to rethink their place and influence and consider whether collective transdisciplinary approaches are key to broaching such challenges and providing imaginative solutions.
Critical perspectives on career and career guidance (COCAG) – COST Action CA23112 – gathers scholars across Europe and beyond to explore such challenges, to consider how careers are changing in the contemporary world and consider what response is required from research, public policy and practice.
On May 6th and 7th, COCAG organises its second conference for the whole network, with particular focus on how the context for career is changing and what this will mean for both policy and practice.
The conference programme will include keynotes, oral communications, workshops, as well as networking and social events.
Submit a paper proposal for the conference
This second conference in May 2026 provides an ideal opportunity to build and maintain networks that foster collaboration, it’s possible that the event may lead to new co-authoring teams as people find others with shared interests across and between nations in Europe and beyond.
The call for papers requires you to submit:
- A short abstract (250-300 words) AND not more than three references.
- Topic must be of relevance to the COST Action and can be empirical or conceptual. It should speak directly to the focus of this conference.
- Abstract to include background, aims, methods or approach, conclusion or contribution.
Following the main purpose of the COST Action, we are most interested in papers that adopt a ‘critical’ approach problematising existing ideas about career and career guidance. We anticipate diverse submissions that may reflect work at different stages (e.g., completed research or research that is only in the planning stage). Either way it is important your abstract conveys clearly the value of your paper to the COCAG audience.
The event organisers will select which abstracts are suitable for both shorter and longer contributions at the event. They will also group submissions to working groups and sub-themes.
Submit your abstract by 21/12/25 here
If you have any questions, please contact cocagconference2026@gmail.com
Critical Perspectives on Career and Career Guidance (COCAG) 