Canada Launches Global Call for Holodomor Research Abstracts with $10M Funding
The Holodomor Legacy Initiative (HLI) has officially announced a comprehensive global call for scholarly submissions aimed at advancing research on the Holodomor. This significant initiative forms a crucial part of a substantial $10 million project funded by Global Affairs Canada, which is specifically dedicated to strengthening Ukraine's National Museum of the Holodomor-Genocide.
International Collaboration for Historical Research
Implemented through a strategic partnership between Cowater International and the Canada-Ukraine Foundation, this landmark project represents a concerted effort to mobilize leading international scholars to address critical gaps in the existing literature surrounding the Holodomor. The primary objective is to generate high-impact, peer-reviewed research that significantly deepens global understanding of the historical, demographic, and gendered impacts of this tragic period in Ukrainian history.
Researchers and practitioners from around the world are now invited to submit abstracts ranging from 750 to 1,250 words for consideration. These submissions will be evaluated for presentation at the upcoming international Holodomor Legacy Symposium, scheduled to take place in May 2026 within Canada's National Capital Region.
Comprehensive Research Approaches Encouraged
The initiative welcomes scholarly exploration through multiple academic lenses, including historical analysis, demographic studies, comparative research, cultural examinations, memorial studies, archival investigations, and legal perspectives. To ensure broad participation, submissions may be presented in English, French, or Ukrainian, reflecting Canada's bilingual heritage and the project's international scope.
Selected applicants will have the opportunity to present their research proposals at the Holodomor Legacy Symposium in Ottawa. Furthermore, successful candidates could receive valuable grant support to further develop their research projects, creating a sustainable framework for ongoing scholarly investigation.
Submission Details and Timeline
The submission process follows a structured timeline designed to facilitate comprehensive review and selection:
- Abstract Deadline: 23 February 2026
- Holodomor Legacy Symposium: May 2026 (specific dates to be confirmed), National Capital Region of Canada
- Application Process: Researchers must submit their abstracts through the official submission portal available at cowater.com/hm
Organizational Background and Mission
Founded in 1985, Cowater International operates as a leading global development consulting company with headquarters in Ottawa and corporate hubs spanning multiple international locations including Auckland, Berlin, Brussels, Canberra, Helsinki, London, Madrid, Montreal, Nairobi, Singapore, and Stockholm. The organization has successfully delivered over 5,000 projects and assignments across more than 100 countries, working collaboratively with governments, private sector entities, and communities to implement initiatives that support socio-economic development, institutional strengthening, environmental improvements, and the advancement of equal opportunities.
The Canada-Ukraine Foundation (CUF), established in 1995 during the 18th Ukrainian Canadian Congress, serves as a national charitable foundation dedicated to coordinating, developing, and delivering humanitarian assistance from Canadians to Ukraine. CUF plays a vital role in monitoring, promoting, and supporting humanitarian aid initiatives while evaluating projects, fostering collaboration among aid providers, setting strategic priorities, and ensuring resources are directed where they can achieve maximum impact. Beyond its international work, CUF also supports related initiatives within Canada, serving as a forum for individuals and organizations across community, private, and public sectors committed to supporting Ukraine.
This collaborative effort represents a significant step toward increasing global awareness and understanding of the Holodomor while establishing Canada as a central hub for serious academic research on this important historical subject.
