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Research Network on

Comparative Regime Studies

Current Members: 82

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About

The ECPR Research Network on Comparative Regime Studies offers a new academic forum for discussing the contemporary dynamics of political regimes and the processes of change both between and within them. This Research Network brings together scholars studying political regimes—both democratic and autocratic—as well as political regime changes, including democratization and autocratization, to further promote and deepen academic knowledge on the analysis of the institutional, political, and social changes experienced or currently being experienced by democracies, autocracies, and so-called hybrid regimes.

In particular, the network focuses on two key themes:

  • The study of contemporary changes and transformations in democratic and autocratic regimes, including the conceptualization, theorization, measurement, and classification of these regimes, along with the analysis of their defining qualities, legitimacy, and internal structures. We understand a political regime to be the set of formal and informal rules and practices that regulate how power is obtained and exercised in any given country. We also recognise that any regime and process of regime transformation is intimately interlinked with ongoing transformations of the state and of governance.
  • The study of regime change phenomena, such as democratization and autocratization, analyzing their determinants, actors, patterns, and political as well as socio-economic consequences.

The primary goal of the Research Network on Comparative Regime Studies is then to foster cooperation and initiate new projects among scholars working in this field. It provides a coordinating structure for the growing number of researchers actively engaged in comparative regime studies, while integrating with and supporting already existing national groups.

  • Advance the development and promotion of comparative regime studies and their transformations within the political science community, sharing information about ongoing research and projects.
  • Support and increase visibility for early-career scholars, providing them with networking opportunities. Encourage new collaborations and collective research initiatives.
  • Collaborate with and support national research clusters in the study of political regimes and their activities.
  • Endorse and organize panels, sections, and workshop proposals while disseminating information on relevant scientific events.
  • Strengthen collaboration and pursuing joint initiatives with other ECPR Standing Groups to explore shared themes and develop new research projects. Facilitate partnerships with other standing groups or research networks that have a specific geographical focus or a thematic focus that align with the objectives of this Research Network

  • Endorse a workshop for the ECPR Joint Sessions and a section at the ECPR General Conferences each year.

  • Collaborate on joint funding applications to external organizations to support research projects.

  • Develop a researcher database on the Research Network's website, including profiles with keywords related to methodological expertise, research interests, and areas of specialization to enhance visibility and recognition of experts.

  • Organise short courses (e.g., Summer/Winter Schools) on topics related to regime changes, which can also serve as partial self-funding for the organization of a biennial conference.