Harvard Kennedy School (HKS) Launches Indigenous Governance and Development 2026 Working Paper Series: Call for Global Research Submissions ·Unknown

The Harvard Kennedy School (HKS) Project on Indigenous Governance and Development has launched a new Working Paper Series inviting scholars, Indigenous leaders, researchers, and community members to submit original research contributions focused on Indigenous governance, development, sovereignty, and community wellbeing.

The new initiative creates a global platform for sharing innovative ideas, research findings, and policy discussions that advance understanding of Indigenous Peoples’ rights, self-determination, and sustainable development.

Submissions are accepted on a rolling basis, providing researchers and practitioners with an opportunity to contribute to an expanding body of knowledge on Indigenous governance and development.

About the Harvard Kennedy School Project on Indigenous Governance and Development

The Harvard Kennedy School Project on Indigenous Governance and Development is dedicated to conducting and promoting collaborative research, learning, and teaching that improves the political, social, cultural, and economic wellbeing of Indigenous Peoples, nations, and communities.

The project focuses on supporting Indigenous sovereignty, self-governance, and the ability of Indigenous communities to shape their own futures through stronger institutions, inclusive policies, and sustainable development approaches.

Through research partnerships and knowledge-sharing initiatives, the project aims to highlight solutions that address challenges faced by Indigenous communities worldwide.

Indigenous Governance and Development Working Paper Series

The newly launched Working Paper Series provides a forum for circulating research papers produced by:

• Academic researchers
• Indigenous scholars and leaders
• Community representatives
• Development practitioners
• Policy experts

The series welcomes submissions that present new perspectives, evidence-based research, and innovative approaches related to Indigenous governance and development.

The initiative seeks to encourage dialogue between researchers, policymakers, Indigenous communities, and other stakeholders working toward improved outcomes for Indigenous Peoples.

Research Areas Eligible for Submission

The Harvard Kennedy School Project welcomes working papers exploring a broad range of topics related to Indigenous Peoples and governance.

Key research areas include:

Self-Determination and Indigenous Sovereignty

Research examining Indigenous Peoples’ rights to self-determination, political autonomy, cultural preservation, and self-governance is encouraged.

Submissions may explore how Indigenous nations develop institutions, protect their identities, and strengthen decision-making systems.

Economic Development and Entrepreneurship

The series welcomes research focused on Indigenous economic empowerment, entrepreneurship, sustainable livelihoods, and strategies that promote economic independence.

Papers may examine Indigenous-led enterprises, community development models, and innovative approaches to improving economic opportunities.

Political Institution Building

Researchers are invited to contribute work examining Indigenous political institutions, governance structures, leadership systems, and approaches to strengthening community representation.

Property Rights and Legal Institutions

The working paper series also welcomes research addressing land rights, legal frameworks, Indigenous jurisdiction, and institutional systems that protect Indigenous communities.

Natural Resources and Conservation

Submissions exploring Indigenous approaches to environmental protection, natural resource management, climate resilience, and conservation are encouraged.

Research may highlight the role of Indigenous knowledge systems in addressing global environmental challenges.

Social and Economic Outcomes

The initiative welcomes studies examining education, health, economic inclusion, social development, and other factors influencing Indigenous community wellbeing.

Data Creation and Collection

Researchers working on Indigenous data sovereignty, data governance, measurement approaches, and community-driven data systems are encouraged to submit papers.

Who Can Submit?

The call is open to a diverse range of contributors, including:

• Researchers and academics
• Indigenous community members
• Policy professionals
• Development practitioners
• Emerging scholars
• Leaders working on Indigenous governance issues

The project encourages submissions that bring forward diverse perspectives and contribute to meaningful research discussions.

Why Submit to the Working Paper Series?

Publishing a working paper through the Harvard Kennedy School Project on Indigenous Governance and Development provides an opportunity to:

• Share innovative research with a global audience
• Contribute to discussions on Indigenous rights and development
• Connect with researchers and practitioners working in the field
• Support evidence-based policymaking
• Strengthen knowledge exchange between communities and institutions

The series aims to become an important resource for researchers, policymakers, and communities seeking practical solutions to improve Indigenous governance and development outcomes.

Submission Process

Interested contributors can submit their working papers through the official submission platform provided by the Harvard Kennedy School Project on Indigenous Governance and Development.

Submissions are reviewed on a rolling basis, meaning there is no fixed deadline and researchers can submit their work throughout the year.

Applicants should review the terms of service and privacy statement before submitting their papers.

Advancing Indigenous Knowledge and Global Dialogue

The launch of the Harvard Kennedy School Indigenous Governance and Development Working Paper Series represents an important opportunity to amplify research and ideas that support Indigenous communities worldwide.

By creating a dedicated platform for scholars, leaders, and community members, the initiative strengthens conversations around sovereignty, economic development, legal rights, environmental stewardship, and inclusive governance.

Researchers and practitioners with relevant work are encouraged to submit their papers and contribute to a growing global movement focused on advancing Indigenous rights, knowledge, and sustainable development.

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