The 14th Biennial International Conference of the Dutch HRM Network 2026!
9–11 November | Ghent, Belgium
Hosted by Vlerick Business School & Ghent University
We’re excited to welcome you to the next edition of the Dutch HRM Network Research Conference, taking place from 9 to 11 November 2026 in Ghent! The event will be co-hosted by Vlerick Business School and Ghent University, bringing together scholars and practitioners for three days of engaging research and dialogue.
Following the success of the 2024 conference, we’re looking forward to building on that energy in 2026.
Stay tuned for more details on tracks, speakers, and registration.
2026 Conference Theme:
HRM in Times of “Geo-Digital” Uncertainties.
Navigating “Geo-Digital” Uncertainties
On the geopolitical front, armed conflicts, migration flows, climate-related displacement, and the resurgence of protectionist policies create unpredictable operating environments for organisations (Kerwin, 2020; Pedersen & Jensen, 2024). Rising trade barriers and shifting international alliances impact labour mobility, supply chains, and social cohesion (Justino & Samarin, 2024; Sarolta, 2023). These dynamics challenge labour market stability and demand HR strategies that are agile, inclusive, and responsive to cross-border realities (Junita, 2021). HR professionals must navigate issues such as displaced talent, ethical global sourcing, and the reconfiguration of workforces across regions. Meanwhile, political polarisation and fragile democracies threaten workforce mobility, diversity initiatives, and global collaboration, increasing pressure on companies to act responsibly across international contexts (Javidan et al., 2023; Sarolta, 2023).
At the same time, digital technologies are transforming the very nature of work, management, and human interaction. Generative AI, algorithmic management, data-driven HR tools, and virtual collaboration platforms are not only redefining how work is done but also raising critical concerns about surveillance, bias, and transparency (Griep et al., 2021). While digital tools offer unprecedented opportunities for efficiency and scalability, they also demand new ethical frameworks and competencies to navigate emerging challenges. Questions about algorithmic fairness, the implications of remote work, and the humanisation of digital processes are central to contemporary HR debates (Guest et al., 2022; Mariani et al., 2023).
To capture the intertwined nature of today’s challenges, we introduce the term “geo-digital” uncertainties, referring to the complex interplay between geopolitical turbulence and technological transformation. Together, these forces place unprecedented demands on HRM, calling for organisational transformation that aligns workforce strategies with emerging global realities. To respond effectively, HR professionals must embrace innovative approaches to inclusion, well-being, talent management, workforce planning, and organisational resilience. As such, this conference invites academics and practitioners to explore how HRM can lead the way in navigating “geo-digital” uncertainties—not merely reacting to them but anticipating their impact and shaping responses that align with democratic values, sustainability, and social justice.
Call for Abstracts is closed!
Best Paper Award and Best Dissertation Award.
As part of this year’s conference, we are pleased to recognise outstanding academic contributions through the Best Paper Award and the Best Dissertation Award.
The Best Paper Award, sponsored by The International Journal of HRM on behalf of Taylor & Francis, acknowledges high-quality scholarly work presented at the conference. All authors are invited to submit their work for consideration.
The Best Dissertation Award, sponsored by Tijdschrift voor HRM, recognises outstanding doctoral research in the field of Human Resource Management. To be eligible, the dissertation must meet the following criteria:
• The dissertation must address a topic relevant to Human Resource Management.
• The dissertation must have been successfully defended between 2 August 2023 and 1 August 2026.
• The dissertation must have been defended at a university located in the Netherlands or in Belgium (Flanders).
To compete for the Best Paper Award and/or the Best Dissertation Award, applicants must submit a full paper and/or an electronic copy of the complete dissertation via email to info@hrm-network.nl by 1 October 2026.
IMPORTANT DEADLINES:
Submitting Abstracts 24 February 2026
Decision of selected abstracts to the authors 20 April 2026
Submitting papers for Best Dissertation Award 01 October 2026
Submitting papers for Best Paper Award 01 October 2026
REGISTER FOR THE CONFERENCE
Registration for the Dutch HRM Network Conference 2026 is now open!
| Tickets | |
| PhD – Early Bird €205 | |
| Regular – Early Bird €420 | |
| PhD – Late registration €265 | |
| Regular – Late registration €475 | |
| Practitioner | |
| Doctoral Consortium (only valid in combination with a paid conference ticket) |
Travelling to Ghent
In light of our commitment to sustainability, we encourage participants to travel to the conference by train or other forms of public transportation whenever possible.
Ghent is well connected by train and bus and is easily accessible from major European cities. High-speed trains such as Thalys and Eurostar connect to Brussels, from where there are frequent direct trains to Ghent (approximately 30 minutes).
The Dutch HRM Network Conference 2026 will be held at Vlerick Business School and Ghent University, both centrally located in the beautiful city of Ghent, Belgium.
A list of recommended hotels across various price categories is available in the Accommodation Overview 2026.
We’re looking forward to seeing you in November!
We, the pHResh PhD network, are thrilled to invite you to our pHResh Doctoral Consortium at the 14th International Dutch HRM Network Conference! Mark your calendars for this exciting event, set to take place on November 9th at the Vlerick Business School / Ghent University.
In keeping with the conference theme, “HRM in Times of ‘Geo-Digital’ Uncertainties,” our consortium aims to help PhD candidates navigate the complex intersection of geopolitical shifts and digital transformation. Whether you are exploring AI in the workplace, the impact of global instability on human work, or any other topic relevant to the field, this day is designed to ensure your trajectory as a researcher remains resilient and future-ready.
What to expect:
- Enlightening Keynote: We are delighted to host Prof. dr. Tanya Bondarouk (University of Twente), who will spark insightful discussions on conducting meaningful research in uncertain times.
- Paper Development Sessions: After the keynote, we will split into small groups where a stellar lineup of professors from the Dutch HRM Network Board will provide invaluable guidance and personalised feedback on your work.
- Dinner and Drinks: We will end the day with dinner and drinks, the perfect opportunity to connect with peers and senior faculty in a relaxed setting.
Registration: Registrations are now open! Availability for the conference will be on a first-come, first-served basis.
We can’t wait to welcome you to the beautiful city of Ghent this fall!
Privacy statement
In order to facilitate your participation in the conference and to ensure a smooth organization, we will collect certain personal information from you. This includes among others your name, contact details and affiliation. Rest assure that we will only use this information for purposes directly related to the conference.
