The call for papers is now open for “The Americans with Disabilities Act and Universal Design: Global Legacy and Potential in Higher Ed” Symposium to be held by Syracuse University College of Law on April 10, 2026, in the Melanie Gray Courtroom in Syracuse, NY.
The symposium will examine the transformative global impact of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the evolution of universal design principles in higher education contexts worldwide. This symposium explores how the ADA’s foundational principles have transcended U.S. borders to influence international disability rights frameworks, accessibility standards, and inclusive design practices across diverse cultural and legal landscapes.
Potential topics include, but are not limited to:
• Comparative analysis of international disability rights legislation influenced by the ADA
• Universal design implementation in global higher education institutions
The role of artificial intelligence in universal design for learning in higher education
• The role of advocacy and activism in expanding universal design globally
• Cross-cultural perspectives on accessibility and inclusion in academic environments
• Technology and digital accessibility in international educational contexts
• Legal frameworks and policy development for disability rights worldwide
• Campus planning and architectural accessibility across different cultural contexts
• Intersectionality and disability rights in diverse global communities
• Challenges and opportunities in implementing universal design principles internationally
• Innovative solutions for advancing accessibility and equity in higher education
Submission Guidelines
We seek original research, case studies, theoretical frameworks, and innovative practices that contribute to understanding the global impact and future potential of ADA principles and universal design in higher education.
Abstract Requirements:
• Maximum 750 words
• Clearly articulated research question or practice area
• Methodology (if applicable)
• Key findings or arguments
• Significance to the symposium themes
• Author name(s), institutional affiliation(s), and contact information
Please indicate if you are interested in presenting, publishing, or both. We anticipate publishing around four papers in a forthcoming issue of The Journal of International Law and Commerce; one paper in The Journal of Global Rights and Organizations; and smaller abstracts may be published in a special feature on Impunity Watch News. Details on registration and schedule for the conference will be forthcoming.
Submissions are due October 23, 2025, 5:00 PM Eastern Standard Time by email to Chris Ramsdell.
The Symposium is supported by:
- Burton Blatt Institute
- Center on Disability and Inclusion
- D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families at Syracuse University (IVMF)
- Disability Law and Policy Program
- Disability Law Students Association
- Impunity Watch News
- Journal of Global Rights and Organizations
- National Veterans Resource Center
- Office of Veteran and Military Affairs
- Syracuse Journal of International Law and Commerce
- Syracuse University Center for Disability Resources
- Syracuse University Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence