Background and Rationale
The African Network of Constitutional Lawyers (ANCL) in collaboration with University of Illorin, Nigeria invites submissions for its 2026 Biennial Conference under the theme: “Reimagining Constitutionalism in Africa: Balancing State Capacity and Non-State Governance.”
Since independence, African states have grappled with the challenge of constructing legitimate, effective and resilient governance systems. While constitutional systems have increasingly become important means of regulating public power and social relations, low and/ or declining public trust in politics and state institutions continue to undermine constitutional legitimacy and state capacity, and in some places to generate instability. In this context, some African countries have achieved relatively stable and functional political systems, while much of the continent remains fragile, in some cases under long-time authoritarian and military leaders. In all cases, popular satisfaction with the performance of their state institutions remains questionable. Young people across the continent are demanding better, accountable governance that is responsive to their needs and aspirations.
The 2026 edition of the ANCL Biennial Conference seeks to interrogate the evolving relationship between constitutional stability, state capacity, and non-state governance, while exploring the epistemological foundations of African constitutional thought.
Key Questions
- What is the relationship between state legitimacy and capacity, and the design and operation of formal constitutional systems in Africa?
- How do non-state actors contribute to or challenge constitutional legitimacy in Africa?
- Can African constitutionalism be reimagined to integrate indigenous values and governance models?
- How do traditional and faith-based institutions interact with formal constitutional structures?
- How can constitutional frameworks better protect vulnerable groups and promote inclusive governance?
- What role can technology and artificial intelligence play in reshaping governance and legal institutions, and harnessing it towards state effectiveness and legitimacy?
Submission Guidelines
- Abstracts: 250–300 words
- Deadline for submission: 31 December 2025
- Notification of acceptance: 16 January 2026 (Only accepted abstracts will be contacted)
- Full paper submission deadline: 1 April 2026
- Format: Times New Roman, 12pt, 1.5 spacing
- Submission email:
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Participation and Support
The conference welcomes submissions from scholars, practitioners, judicial officials, and public intellectuals across Africa and beyond. Contributions with a gender perspective and from underrepresented groups are especially encouraged.