Dear Colleagues,
We are pleased to announce the upcoming 2025 Conference of the International Geographical Union (IGU) Commission on Informality, Social Change and Development (IGU-ISCD), which will be held from 12 to 14 December 2025 at Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China. We warmly invite geographers, urban researchers, social scientists, and urban planners to mark their calendars for this important international gathering.
Main Theme
Socio-spatial Transformation and Governance in the Era of Globalization
Globalization is a multidimensional process encompassing economic, political, social, cultural, and environmental interconnections. It continues to evolve under the influence of capital flows, technological advancement, climate crises, and shifting geopolitical dynamics. This conference provides a platform for interdisciplinary exchange, aiming to deepen our understanding of emerging patterns in the production and reproduction of urban and rural spaces over the world. By fostering dialogue among international scholars, the conference aims to explore innovative modes of spatial and social governance that respond to global and local challenges, and that promote inclusive, sustainable, and resilient development in diverse regional contexts.
Key Topics including but not limited to
Globalization and intercity networks
Socio-spatial polarization in global and globalizing cities
Migration and migrant communities
Border cities
Urban renewal, gentrification and socio-spatial effects
Informality, informal settlements and redevelopment
Informal work, labour agency and social protection
Digital economies and platform urbanism
Urban-rural interaction and rural spatial transformation
Climate change and urban-rural responses
Inclusive planning and governance
Organizers
International Geographical Union (IGU) Commission on Informality, Social Change and Development (IGU-ISCD)
International Exchange and Cooperation Working Committee, Geographical Society of China (GSC)
School of Geography and Planning, Sun Yat-sen University
Conference Venue
Sun Yat-sen University (East Campus), Guangzhou, China
Important dates
Deadline for abstract submission: 30 September 2025
Early bird registration deadline: 12 October 2025
Registration deadline: 12 November 2025
Conference dates: 12-14 December 2025
Registration and abstract submission
Please register and submit your abstract through the link http://www.igu-iscd.com/abstract-submission.html or visit the IGU-ISCD website http://www.igu-iscd.com/ and get access to the registration page by the path: Events-Registration & Abstract Submission
Registration fees
Registration fees include lunch, refreshments and dinner, and conference materials.
International delegates
Early bird fee: USD 180
Standard fee: USD 220
Student fee: USD 140
Chinese delegates
Early bird fee: RMB 1200 (USD 180)
Standard fee: RMB 1500 (USD 220)
Student fee: RMB 1000 (USD 140)
Contact us
If you have any question, please do not hesitate to contact Dr.Que: quejn@mail2.sysu.edu.cn; Dr.Huang: hgzhi3@mail.sysu.edu.cn
★This is the first circular. Conference information will be subject to the second circular, which will include details on way of payment and field trip.
About Guangzhou
Guangzhou, a bustling metropolis in Southern China, serves as the cultural and economic hub of Guangdong Province. Renowned for its vibrant markets, rich history, and delectable cuisine, Guangzhou is an essential destination for travelers seeking a harmonious blend of modernity and tradition. Adding to its significance as a global commerce center, the China Import and Export Fair (Canton Fair), China’s largest and highest-level export trade fair, has been held in Guangzhou continuously since 1957. As an ancient but dynamic city, Guangzhou impresses visitors with both its vivid modern ambience and unique traditional Lingnan indigenous culture. Reflecting the unique charm of a multi-cultural metropolis, the city’s cultural influences can be seen in all aspects of its social life. Specific examples include diet (Cantonese food), lifestyle, architecture, commerce, language, music, art, customs, and entertainment.
