QAD Peace Research Support Fund 2026: Grants for Peace and Conflict Research
The QAD Peace Research Support Fund 2026 is now open for applications, offering a valuable funding opportunity for researchers working on peace, conflict resolution, and social transformation. Launched by the QAD Peace Research Association, this initiative is designed to support innovative research that promotes dialogue, justice, equality, and democratic values across societies.
In a world facing increasing political tensions, social inequality, and environmental challenges, the need for impactful peace research has never been greater. This fund aims to empower scholars, researchers, and practitioners to contribute meaningful insights and solutions that foster sustainable peace.
About the QAD Peace Research Support Fund
The QAD Peace Research Support Fund is a research grant programme focused on advancing peace-oriented knowledge production. It recognizes that peace is not simply the absence of conflict, but a complex and ongoing process involving social, political, economic, cultural, and environmental transformation.
The programme strongly encourages interdisciplinary research, bridging academic theory with practical applications in policymaking and community development. By supporting innovative ideas and critical thinking, QAD aims to strengthen the connection between research and real-world impact.
Purpose and Objectives
The fund is structured to promote high-quality research and meaningful engagement in peacebuilding efforts. Its main objectives include:
• Supporting academic and independent research in peace and conflict studies
• Increasing the visibility and relevance of peace-focused research
• Encouraging collaboration between academia, policymakers, and civil society
• Promoting innovative and critical approaches to peacebuilding
Special attention is given to research addressing both historical and contemporary challenges, particularly those related to achieving peaceful and democratic solutions in complex contexts such as the Kurdish issue.
Thematic Areas
Applicants can submit proposals across a wide range of themes, provided their research contributes to peace and conflict resolution. The programme highlights five priority areas:
1. Social Peace
• Strategies for resolving violent conflicts
• Dialogue-based and inclusive approaches
• Policy recommendations based on field research
2. Conflict and Resolution
• Analysis of violence, exclusion, and systemic inequality
• Mechanisms for reconciliation, justice, and accountability
• Comparative studies of conflict across regions
3. Economic and Ecological Justice
• Links between inequality, environmental issues, and conflict
• Role of peace processes in promoting sustainability
• Climate-related conflicts and resource management
4. Global and Regional Geopolitics
• Effects of nationalism, populism, and authoritarianism
• Regional political transformations
• Interaction between global trends and local peace processes
5. History and Culture
• Cultural and artistic expressions of peace
• Role of memory, identity, and historical narratives
• Representation of peace in media, literature, and arts
These themes reflect the programme’s commitment to holistic and inclusive approaches to peacebuilding.
Eligibility Criteria
The QAD Peace Research Support Fund is open to a diverse group of applicants, including:
• Academics and independent researchers
• Master’s and PhD students
• Postdoctoral scholars
• Civil society professionals and policy experts
Key Conditions
• Only one application per applicant is allowed (team submissions are permitted)
• Projects must be ongoing or in development
• Completed or previously published work is not eligible
• Applications can be submitted in English or Turkish
This inclusive approach ensures that both emerging and experienced researchers can participate.
Funding Categories
In 2026, the programme will fund five research projects under two categories:
Micro-Scale Research
• Funding Amount: €1,500
• Final Report Requirement: Minimum of 15 pages
Medium & Large-Scale Research
• Funding Amount: €2,500
• Final Report Requirement: Minimum of 25 pages
These grants are designed to support research activities such as data collection, fieldwork, analysis, and dissemination.
Application Requirements
Applicants must prepare a detailed proposal ranging between 3,000 and 4,000 words. The application must include:
1. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Academic background and qualifications
• Relevant experience and expertise
• Publications or previous research work
3. Research Proposal
• Research topic and key questions
• Methodology and work plan
• Expected contribution to existing literature
• Objectives and alignment with QAD’s mission
• Timeline and required resources
• Risk assessment and mitigation strategies
3. References
• Contact details of two expert referees
4. Ethics Statement
• Confirmation of originality
• Commitment to academic integrity and ethical standards
Technical Guidelines
• Submit the application as a single PDF file
• Include your name on every page
• Ensure all pages are numbered
• Send the application via email to: info@qad.institute
Incomplete or incorrectly formatted applications will not be considered.
Selection and Evaluation Criteria
Applications will be reviewed by a scholarly selection committee appointed by the QAD Peace Research Association.
Key evaluation criteria include:
• Academic quality and methodological rigor
• Originality and depth of analysis
• Relevance to peace research and programme objectives
• Interdisciplinary and innovative approach
• Feasibility within the proposed timeline
• Potential for societal and policy impact
In some cases, external peer reviewers may be consulted to ensure a fair and thorough evaluation process.
Responsibilities of Selected Researchers
Successful applicants will be expected to:
• Submit final research reports and policy briefs
• Participate in QAD networking and dissemination activities
• Provide interim progress updates
• Acknowledge QAD funding in all publications
Research outputs may be translated and published in multiple languages, increasing global accessibility and impact.
Programme Timeline (2026–2027)
Here are the key dates to keep in mind:
• Applications Open: 24 March 2026
• Application Deadline: 19 April 2026
• Results Announcement: 8 May 2026
• Interim Evaluation: 1 October 2026
Final Submission Deadlines
• Micro-scale projects: 5 February 2027
• Medium/Large-scale projects: 19 March 2027
Applicants should plan their research timelines carefully to meet these milestones.
Why You Should Apply
The QAD Peace Research Support Fund offers more than just financial support—it provides a platform for impactful research and global engagement.
Benefits include:
• Funding to support innovative research projects
• Increased visibility in academic and policy communities
• Opportunities to contribute to global peacebuilding efforts
• Access to interdisciplinary and international networks
For researchers committed to advancing peace, justice, and equality, this programme offers a meaningful opportunity to make a difference.
Tips for a Strong Application
To improve your chances of selection:
• Clearly define your research problem and objectives
• Use a strong and appropriate methodological framework
• Demonstrate the impact and relevance of your research
• Ensure your proposal aligns with QAD’s mission
• Follow all technical guidelines carefully
A well-structured and compelling proposal will stand out in this competitive process.
Final Thoughts
The QAD Peace Research Support Fund 2026 represents an important opportunity for researchers to contribute to the global conversation on peace and conflict resolution. By supporting innovative and interdisciplinary research, the programme helps generate knowledge that can drive real-world change.
If you are passionate about peacebuilding and want to make a lasting impact through research, this is an opportunity worth pursuing.