International Conference on Gender Studies and Sexuality 2025 Berlin
- 08 - 10 Aug 2025
- Berlin
The 6th International Conference on Gender Studies and Sexuality (ICGSS) returns to Berlin from 8 to 10 August 2025, inviting academics, researchers, activists and community members to engage in critical dialogue about gender and sexuality. Building on previous editions, the 2025 conference highlights contemporary developments in gender equality, representation, and lgbtq+Q+ rights. Hosted by the European Center for Social Sciences and Humanities, it serves as a platform for sharing research and for networking among people committed to creating more inclusive societies.
ICGSS fosters multidisciplinary conversations about issues affecting diverse communities. Sessions will address legislative and social efforts to combat discrimination, the rights of lgbtq+Q+ communities, and the socio‑political factors that shape gender and sexuality. Topics range from feminist theory, queer studies and masculinity to transgender and non‑binary identities, intersectionality, ecofeminism, gender and technology, gender and politics, and reproductive rights. By bringing together scholars from sociology, law, public policy, media studies, psychology and the humanities, the conference encourages holistic approaches to gender justice.
The programme spans three intensive days. On Friday, 8 August, registration opens and attendees gather for an opening ceremony followed by keynote lectures and panel discussions on emerging research. Afternoon workshops give participants hands‑on experience in research methods, advocacy and community engagement. Saturday, 9 August, offers parallel sessions grouped into thematic tracks such as gender and media, reproductive politics, artificial intelligence and health. Poster presentations provide early‑career researchers with opportunities to present their work, and an informal evening reception allows for networking. Sunday, 10 August, is devoted to applied perspectives, with workshops on building inclusive curricula, supporting lgbtq+Q+ students, and integrating intersectional approaches into public policy. The conference offers both in‑person and virtual participation formats to accommodate attendees worldwide.
Participation is open to anyone interested in gender and sexuality studies. The conference is not only about presenting research but also about building community and sharing knowledge. Past editions have welcomed academics, PhD candidates, students, representatives from non‑profit organisations, government officials and activists. Organisers place a strong emphasis on creating an inclusive environment where people of all gender identities and sexual orientations feel welcome. A comprehensive code of conduct ensures that debates are respectful and that historically marginalised voices are amplified.
Berlin provides an inspiring backdrop for ICGSS. The city has long been a centre of progressive politics and sexual liberation, from Magnus Hirschfeld’s pioneering Institute for Sexual Science in the early twentieth century to contemporary lgbtq+Q+ rights movements. Neighbourhoods such as Schöneberg and Nollendorfplatz are hubs of gay and lesbian life, with cafés, bars and bookstores. Beyond the conference halls, attendees can explore the Reichstag, Brandenburg Gate, Museum Island and the East Side Gallery to gain insight into Berlin’s complex history. Public transport via the U‑Bahn and S‑Bahn is efficient and affordable, making it easy to navigate between venues and attractions.
ICGSS 2025 offers optional social programmes, including guided walking tours of Berlin’s queer heritage sites and networking dinners at local restaurants. In the evenings, participants can experience the city’s vibrant nightlife, from alternative clubs in Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain to more polished venues in Mitte. If you plan to stay a few extra days, consider day trips to Potsdam or strolls through the leafy Tiergarten. Berlin offers accommodation for every budget, and several lgbtq+Q‑friendly hotels and guesthouses can be found near the conference venue. Early booking is advised for those who wish to stay close to the event.
Important deadlines include the abstract submission deadline on 18 July 2025 and the registration deadline on 29 July 2025. Early registration is recommended because workshops and presentation slots fill quickly. Accepted papers will be eligible for publication in the conference proceedings or partner journals. Those not presenting can register as listeners and still benefit from the sessions, networking opportunities and workshops.
The 2025 conference will feature distinguished keynote speakers and panelists who bridge academia and activism. While the full programme is still being finalised, past conferences have welcomed leading scholars such as Professor Patricia Moynagh of Wagner College, who specialises in feminist political theory. Attendees can expect thought‑provoking talks on decolonising gender studies, trans* rights in Europe, reproductive justice and the impact of digital platforms on gender politics.
Prospective participants should review the extensive range of themes listed on the official website, which include abortion rights, anti‑gender movements, feminist research, gender and democracy, gender and technology, queer histories, and lgbtq+Q studies. When drafting an abstract, emphasise the novelty of your research, the methodology and its contribution to the field. Even if you are not presenting, consider preparing questions or topics you hope to discuss during the sessions.
Beyond the three days of scheduled sessions, ICGSS encourages collaborations that often continue long after the event. Networking sessions are designed to promote cross‑disciplinary dialogue. You may meet a sociologist researching sex worker rights, a technologist working on AI fairness, or a community organiser developing inclusive curricula. Joint publications, research partnerships and community projects frequently grow out of these interactions.
Whether you are an experienced scholar or new to the field, the International Conference on Gender Studies and Sexuality 2025 offers a unique opportunity to learn, engage and contribute. By attending, you become part of a community dedicated to advancing gender equality and social justice. Mark your calendar for 8–10 August 2025 and visit the official ICGSS website (icgss.org) to register and stay updated on programme details. Berlin awaits with open arms and promises inspiring conversations and lasting connections.