Global Crises and the Call for Decolonization
The Decolonization Forum Series begins from the recognition that contemporary global crises cannot be understood apart from the colonial legacies that continue to shape our world. Globalization that claimed to bring “universal progress” has instead functioned as a mechanism that reproduces problematic legacies of colonialism across economic, cultural, and epistemic dimensions. The crises of our time such as; demographic changes in societies, transformations in family structures, technological developments such as artificial intelligence that disrupt existing social structures, inequalities in access to healthcare, environmental degradation, failed development models, and the persistence of violent conflicts reveal the limits of the existing order and the need of rethinking knowledge production processes, institutional structures, and social relations. In today’s multipolar world, where multiple centers of power are emerging simultaneously, pursuing efforts of decolonization theoretically and translating these theories into lived realities are more urgent than ever to reshape intellectual traditions, institutional frameworks, and social life.
A Platform for Critical Engagement
The Decolonization Forum Series responds to this necessity by bringing together scholars and practitioners from diverse disciplines and regions. The aim here is to connect multiple knowledge traditions, foster cross-cultural and interdisciplinary exchanges, avoid reductionist dichotomies, and create new possibilities for dialogue, critical thought, and collective production. Within this framework, the Decolonization Forum Series serves not only as a space for academic discussion but also as a meeting ground where experiences from different geographies can be shared and new collaborations can emerge.
The Decolonization Forum Series
The series will unfold in three thematic stages: In 2026, under the theme “Decolonizing Knowledge Production and Circulation” discussions will focus on how knowledge production in the postcolonial world continues to be shaped by enduring epistemic frameworks, how these frameworks reproduce hierarchies within global knowledge circulation, and how such hierarchies can be overcome. In 2028, the theme “Decolonizing Institutions and Organizations” will explore how colonial mentalities are reproduced within universities, legal systems, and other institutional structures, how these institutional structures permeate society, and what possibilities exist for transforming them. In 2030, under the theme “Decolonization in Practice: Proposals for Society” attention will turn to concrete interventions in the social, economic, and cultural spheres aimed at advancing the practical dimensions of decolonization.
Istanbul as a City of Pluralist Creativity
Taking place in Istanbul which is a historical crossroads of civilizations, the Decolonization Forum 2026 aims to challenge singular narratives and unsettle epistemic hierarchies. With its enduring diversity and layered cultural heritage, Istanbul embodies the very intersections the Forum seeks to explore: between North and South, East and West, universality and plurality, objectivity and situatedness. The encounters witnessed throughout the city’s history serve as a powerful source of inspiration for rethinking the possibility of coexistence among diverse narratives in today’s world. Thus, the city is not merely a host but also a lens through which these complex relations can be reimagined.
Organizers and Collaborations
The main organizer of Decolonization Forum 2026, Institute Social, is a public-interest think tank that is engaged in research and development for public benefit. It develops high-quality and authentic solution models based on data and analytical research in the fields of education, society, culture, and economy, addressing the needs of both Türkiye and the global community. In leading the Decolonization Forum Series, Institute Social collaborates with a wide range of institutions and scholars from around the world. Building on Istanbul’s multilayered historical legacy and these global partnerships, the Decolonization Forum Series aims to generate lasting contributions toward a more just, decolonized world that challenges hegemonic and one-dimensional narratives.
Scientific Committee
Organizing Committee
Al Jazeera Centre for Studies
Boğaziçi University
Center for Islamic Studies (ISAM)
Institute of Islamic Understanding Malaysia (IKIM)
Institute of the Global South (IGS)
Institute Social
International Islamic University Malaysia
Iqbal Centre for Critical Muslim Studies - University of Leeds
NÛN Foundation for Education and Culture
Research Center on the Circulation of Knowledge (CECIC)
Russian Academy of Sciences Institute of Oriental Studies
Shanghai University
South-South Exchange Programme for Research on the History of Development (SEPHIS)
The Latin American Council of Social Sciences (CLASCO)
Turkish Maarif Foundation
Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia
PRESS
The World Decolonization Forum (WDF) 2026 invites members of the international press to join us in Istanbul for a landmark gathering of global scholars, journalists, and public intellectuals. Taking place at the Atatürk Cultural Center on May 11-12, 2026, the Forum serves as a critical platform for reimagining knowledge production in a pluriversal world.
About the Forum
Under the theme "Decolonizing Knowledge Production and Circulation," WDF 2026 addresses the colonial structures that continue to shape our political, social, and epistemic systems. Organized by Institute Social in collaboration with a global network of universities and research centers, the event features distinguished speakers such as Walter Mignolo, Mireille Fanon, and Joseph Massad.
Media Accreditation & Inquiries
We welcome journalists, broadcasters, and digital content creators to cover the plenary sessions, academic panels, and keynote speeches.
Press Accreditation: To apply for media credentials and gain access to the press lounge, interview opportunities with speakers, and high-resolution media assets, please submit your request via our media relations team.
- Event Dates: May 11-12, 2026
- Location: Atatürk Cultural Center, Istanbul, Türkiye
Contact Information: For interview requests, press kits, or accreditation inquiries, please contact:
Global Communication Partner:
