Call for Papers: Industrial Policy in the 21st Century

We are pleased to announce a Call for Papers for the conference on “Industrial Policy in the 21st Century”, scheduled to be held on February 20-21 in Tbilisi, Georgia

This conference is organized by the Research Platform: Education for Development and Stability (RPEDS) in collaboration
with the National Scientific Foundation of Georgia (Rustaveli Foundation), and YSI’s Political Economy of Europe Working Group.

We invite submissions on the following topics:
● Industrial Policy in the 21st Century
● Industrial Policy of China in the Context of Large Infrastructure Projects
● Industrial Policy in Russia and Ukraine (Military Keynesianism and Industrial Policy in
Russia)
● Industrial Policy, or the Lack Thereof, in Post-Soviet Countries
● Challenges of Industrial Policy in the Era of Global Value Chains
● Industrial Policy Debates in the Global South: Contemporary Developments
● Bureaucracy and Industrial Policy

Contrary to the traditional belief that free markets alone drive economic success, nearly every country—regardless of its economic model—has strategically adopted industrial policies to guide key sectors and influence long-term growth. Whether by driving the green and digital transformations, adapting to shifting GVCs, or recognizing the need for increased government intervention to address new geopolitical challenges, industrial policy has become a critical mechanism for states to steer their economic pathways and ensure resilience in an uncertain global landscape. This conference is a unique opportunity to dive into the evolving role of industrial policy across vastly different contexts, from China’s infrastructure-led strategy to Russia’s military-industrial focus. By bringing together leading academics, policymakers, and international representatives, the event promises to challenge old assumptions, spark new ideas, and offer fresh insights on how nations can harness industrial policy in the face of 21st-century challenges.

The conference will feature a distinguished lineup of speakers, including leading academics, policymakers, industry experts, and international representatives.

YSI will provide financial support for selected participants, covering travel and accommodation expenses to Tbilisi, Georgia.