CALL FOR PAPERS Bonds That Divide, Divisions That Bind: Nation-Making and Contemporary Nationalism(s) through Borders In the 21st century, nationalism continues to assert itself as a powerful force reshaping societies, politics, and identities across the globe. From the rise of right-wing populism to the resurgence of ethnic and cultural nationalisms, the contemporary landscape is marked by complexity, contradiction, and profound global significance. Central to this evolving phenomenon is the practice of border making—understood not only as the physical demarcation of territorial boundaries, but also as the construction and reinforcement of cultural, social, and symbolic lines that define, exclude, and unite. These borders play a crucial role in creating meanings, reinforcing hierarchies, and producing notions of “insiders” and “outsiders” that shape everyday experiences of identity, power, and belonging. This special issue aims to foster a deeper understanding of how contemporary nationalism(s) and bordermaking practices intersect to shape both global and local realities. By critically engaging with these themes, we seek to illuminate the complex ways in which power, identity, and belonging are produced, challenged, and reimagined in an increasingly polarized world. We especially welcome papers that engage with questions such as: How do contemporary nationalism(s) influence the (re)configuration of borders in different parts of the world? In what ways do borders function as instruments of exclusion, control, or identity formation? How are borders challenged, contested, or subverted by migrants, activists, or transnational communities? What role do historical narratives, collective memory, and myth-making play in contemporary nation- and border-making projects? How do digital technologies, surveillance, or global capitalism reshape the practices and politics of bordering? Can we identify emerging forms of solidarity or resistance that transcend national and territorial boundaries? We invite contributions that explore these dynamics from diverse disciplinary perspectives. Submissions may critically examine the interplay between contemporary forms of nationalism and the processes of border creation, negotiation, or dismantling, particularly in light of shifting political, economic, and cultural forces. We welcome both theoretical and empirical contributions, including case studies and comparative analyses that illuminate the global and local dimensions of these phenomena. A detailed timetable for the publication process 15 May 2025: submission of abstracts (200 words) 20 May 2025: notice to authors of selection of abstracts 30 July 2025: submission of full papers for review 30 September 2025: authors receive feedback from reviewers 30 October 2025: submission of revised papers 30 December 2025: publication of special issue Please send your abstracts (max. 200 words) along with a brief bio to: barbara.gornik@zrs-kp.si *** More info about the journal: http://en.ish.si/?page_id=3610