ECPR Political Theory Prize

ECPR Political Theory Prize

Deadline: Fri, 30 Jan 2026

ECPR

Contact: prizes@ecpr.eu


Website

Call for Award Description

The ECPR Political Theory Prize was introduced in 2020 to highlight the critical role of political theory in political science by celebrating outstanding contributions in the field. The prize is awarded for the best first book in political theory, published in English and within two years preceding the award year. 

The Political Theory Prize was conceived in collaboration with the ECPR Standing Groups on Kantian Political Thought, Political Theory and International Political Theory, and Methods of Normative Political Theory. It is co-sponsored by the Contemporary Political Theory journal and carries a prize fund of £450. 

Nurturing and supporting the careers of students and early career researchers has been a key part of the mission of the ECPR since its creation, and nominations of early career scholars are therefore strongly encouraged.

Submitting a nomination 

To nominate, please use the Nomination Form which will display at the top of this page during the nomination period.

Important note: Two academic nominators are required for this prize. They must be based in two different countries, and must be affiliated with ECPR Member institutions. Scholars will need to liaise with each other, as one individual will submit the nomination on behalf of both.

Nominations must include, as three separate PDF files:

  • PDF 1: Book as a PDF file
  • PDF 2: Formal nomination letter from first academic, including book title and year of publication, and the rationale for nominating the book
  • PDF 3: Formal nomination letter from second academic, including book title and year of publication, and the rationale for nominating the book 

Nominations of early career scholars are encouraged.