About ISISA

Conference info

The International Small Islands Studies Association (ISISA) is a global network dedicated to interdisciplinary island research. The annual Islands of the World Conferenceprovides a platform for learning, connection, and island-led solutions.

Meet the organising team →
Curaçao cultural festival

About the 2027 conference

From 6–11 June 2027, the Islands of the World Conference returns with a special Caribbean edition, hosted for the first time in Curaçao. Set in the heart of Otrobanda: a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colorful architecture, living heritage, and community vibrancy.

The conference brings together island scholars and practitioners from across the globe. This year's theme — Navigating Challenges, Building Global Resilience: Island Solutions — foregrounds the unique position of small islands as both vulnerable to global crises and innovative in generating solutions.

The conference features keynote speakers, parallel research sessions, a field excursion, and social events that make the most of Curaçao's extraordinary setting.

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Otrobanda, Willemstad, Curaçao

Conference themes & tracks

Click a theme to explore

01

Island resilience & climate adaptation

How small island states adapt to climate change, sea-level rise, and extreme weather — and what the rest of the world can learn from them.

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Governance & self-determination

Political autonomy, constitutional arrangements, and participatory governance in island and postcolonial contexts.

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Blue economy & marine resources

Sustainable use of ocean resources, fisheries, maritime industries, and coral reef conservation for island development.

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Heritage, culture & identity

Living heritage, indigenous knowledge systems, language preservation, and cultural expression across island communities.

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Health & wellbeing

Island health systems, non-communicable disease burdens, mental health, remote care, and community-led health innovation.

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Tourism & sustainable development

Balancing tourism-dependent economies with environmental sustainability, community wellbeing, and long-term island resilience.

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Call for abstracts — The abstract submission portal is now open. Submit your research abstract for peer review consideration. Submit abstract →

Key dates

  • 1 Oct 2026Abstract submission opens
  • 1 Feb 2027Abstract submission deadline
  • 1 Mar 2027Notification of acceptance
  • 1 Apr 2027Early-bird registration deadline
  • 15 May 2027Late registration deadline
  • 6–10 Jun 2027ISISA 2027 Conference, Curaçao