Call for Presenters: CIDR's 2026 Symposium at at Saint Paul University

The Centre for Informal Dispute Resolution at Saint Paul University in Ottawa seeks presenters for its annual symposium set for May 11-12, 2026. This year, the theme is, "Navigating Crises: The Evolving Role of ADR Practitioners and Ombuds in Turbulent Times." The keynote speaker will be Bernie Mayer. The hybrid virtual and in-person event will bring together students, practitioners, researchers, and faculty in conflict resolution.

Areas of interest include, but are not limited to, the topics listed below. 

• Please note that we also welcome proposals on other ADR (Appropriate Dispute Resolution) topics for our general panels. 
• Practising ADR in times of political, social, or institutional crisis 
• Balancing neutrality and advocacy 
• Re-framing institutional roles 
• Responding to crises at the interpersonal or global levels as ADR practitioners
• Cultivating resilience in the face of systemic conflict 
• Evolution and innovation in ICMS (informal conflict management services) in the federal government 
• The evolution of ombuds roles within existing organisational frameworks 
• Organisational ethics and systemic change 
• Public awareness initiatives to promote ADR as a tool in times of crisis 
• The impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in ADR 
• Case studies on successful comprehensive conflict management models 
• The growth of outsourced ombuds and conflict management more broadly in evolving political and institutional contexts 
• Controversies surrounding diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) strategies and policies 
• Health sector complaint management 
• Cross-sector and cross-cultural practices ADR practices in the Global South 
• ADR systems in new sectors/industries

The deadline for proposals is January 30, 2026. Check back for details about the conference. (CIDR Call for Papers and Panels.)

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