This publication series documents lectures given on the platform of the African Peacebuilding and Developmental Dynamics (APDD) program, and its institutional partners.

Manuscripts should be sent in a Word document, along with a short biography, to the editors at apdd@ssrc.org with the subject line: “Lecture Series.” Please review our Lecture Series submission guidelines below before sending in your contribution.

The editors are 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 and 10,000 words in length. Exceptions may be made if deemed appropriate by the series editor.
  • Submissions should be original, unpublished speeches presented at APDD-organized events.
  • 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 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

  • The main aim of the APDD Lecture Series is to provide an avenue for influential thinkers, practitioners, policy makers, and activists to reflect on and speak to the critical issues and challenges facing African peacebuilding.
  • 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 edit the piece to enhance readability by a wider audience. If substantive changes are made, the author will be sent the final version of their essay 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.

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