The APDD Working Papers series seeks to address knowledge gaps and emerging debates on the conflict, post-conflict, developmental and security dimensions of peacebuilding in Africa by publishing independent research that provides critical overviews and reflections on the state of the field.

Manuscripts should be based on unpublished research and sent in a Word document, along with a short biography, to the series editor at apdd@ssrc.org with the subject line: “Working Papers.” All manuscripts submitted to the Series are subjected to a double-peer review process.

Please review our Working Papers submission guidelines below before sending in your contribution.

The series editor is always happy to discuss ideas with potential authors and respond to any queries you may have.

Length and Format

  • We consider and accept manuscripts between 5,000 – 15,000 words in length.
  • If possible, please send your high-quality headshot or related photograph(s) with your manuscript, either one you have taken yourself or for which you hold the rights. Images should be submitted as JPEG or PNG files and include a short caption and photo credit where applicable. Authors are responsible for securing any necessary permissions.
  • Titles: Please keep your title short. Ideally, not more than 12 words and/or less than 100 characters. Please ensure that the title communicates the topic/essence of the piece to the reader.
  • Please include an abstract of the manuscript (120 words) and keywords (4-6 words)
  • Please send, along with your essay, a short bio (120 words) that includes your name (as you want it to appear in publication), your institutional affiliation and position, your highest educational attainment and research field, major publications (if applicable), and notable accomplishments. You may also send us a link to your full bio on your organization’s website.

Audience, writing style and language

  • We aim for a style that is clear, accessible, and professional, grounded in research and evidence.

 Referencing

  • Please make sure that your references are done in the Chicago Manual Style. https://www.chicagomanualofstyle.org/tools_citationguide/citation-guide-1.html
  • Although we prefer to use links, we also accept citations for references when sources are not available online. Please link any direct quotations or data to online sources, especially if you use figures or make claims that might be contentious. Links should be used to direct readers to more detailed reports or associated research, news items, and other online sources.
  • Please try to avoid using footnotes if possible and integrate material directly into the text.

Editing Process and Publication

  • Submitted manuscripts will be reviewed by the editorial team, who will process them to enhance readability by a wider audience. If substantive changes are made, the author will be sent the edited version of their manuscript to review prior to publication.

For further information and to submit an essay, please email the editors at: apdd@ssrc.org

For more information about the African Peacebuilding and Developmental Dynamics program, please visit our website.

Menu