Call for Papers:

Communication Empowering Regional Development

Academic Conference of the Journalism and Communication Sub-Committee of

South & Southeast Asian University Network

Co-host by

Journalism and Communication Sub-Committee of S & SE Asian UN

Journalism School，Yunnan University

Nov 1-2, 2025
Kunming, Yunnan, China

Conference Overview

The Journalism and Communication Sub-Committee of the South & Southeast Asian University Network cordially invites scholars, researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and media professionals to participate in the conference "Communication Empowering Regional Development." This distinguished gathering will explore the transformative role of communication in fostering development across South and Southeast Asia regions and  China-South/Southeast Asia communication and media cooperation.  

In an era where digital transformation and intelligent communication is reshaping the global communication landscape, South and Southeast Asia stand at the forefront of unprecedented media evolution, which present unique opportunities and challenges for leveraging communication as a catalyst for regional development.

The conference theme, "Communication Empowering Regional Development," recognizes that effective communication should serve as a fundamental driver of social change, economic growth, cultural exchange, sustainable development and regional corporation.

Conference Theme and Topics

The conference will examine how communication empowers regional development and papers are invited on the following topics, though submissions on related topics within the conference scope are also welcome:

1. Digital Infrastructure and Connectivity: the conference will explore how ICTs can foster economic growth, social integration and intentional cooperation.

2. Media Development and Information Literacy: the conference will address the contributory roles of media literacy and responsible journalism in the rapidly evolving media landscapes.

3. Strategic Communication for Sustainable Development: the conference will explore how communication can advance the sustainable development goals across both regions.

4. Participatory Communication and Community Empowerment: the conference will explore the approaches to boost co-creation and active involvement of community members in development processes and strengthen community skills and confidence.

5. Cultural Communication and Innovative Communication Networks: the conference will highlight the importance of cultural communication in promoting intercultural understanding and cultivating trust, and will discuss how innovative communication networks and digital platforms can accelerate knowledge sharing, foster cross-border collaboration, and stimulate regional innovation ecosystems.

Submission Guidelines

Paper Categories:

· Full Research Papers: 6,000-8,000 English words (including references).

· Short Papers/Work-in-Progress: 3,000-4,000 English words.

· Extended Abstracts: 1,000-1,500 English words.

Submission Requirements:

• Title Page: Include paper title, author name(s), institutional affiliation(s), contact information, and 4-5 keywords.

· Abstract: 250-300 words summarizing research objectives, methodology, findings, and implications for full research Papers, 1,000-1,500 English words for extended abstracts.

• Format and Citation Style: Papers must be submitted in PDF format, double-spaced, 12-point Times New Roman font, with 1-inch margins, and follow APA 7th edition format for all references.

• Panel Proposal：Panel title, panel moderator and list of presenters (including name, affiliation, title, and a brief bio), panel abstract (no more than 500 words), individual extended abstracts  (1,000-1,500 words) .

• Submission mailbox：SSEAUN_2025COM@163.com

No registration fee is required. Participants will bear their own travel and accommodation expenses. All meals during the conference will be provided by the organizer.

Submission Process:

· Deadline: Oct. 1, 2025

· Notification of Acceptance: Oct. 12, 2025

Special Sessions and Formats

In addition to traditional paper presentations, the conference will feature:

· Panel Discussions: Bringing together practitioners, policymakers, and academics to discuss contemporary challenges.

· Roundtable Discussions: Focused conversations on regional cooperation and opportunities for media and journalistic education.

· Keynote Presentations: Distinguished speakers from academia and media industry addressing major themes.

Conference Proceedings and Publication

All accepted papers will be published in the conference proceedings, which will be made available digitally to all participants. Selected high-quality papers will be included in an upcoming English-language conference proceedings, planned for publication by an international publisher.  

Important Dates

Contact Information

Conference Secretariat
Journalism and Communication Sub-Committee
South & Southeast Asian University Networks
Email：SSEAUN_JC@163.com