Over two days, the 12 Early-Stage Researchers (ESRs) presented their PhD projects, organised across different thematic work packages, and received structured feedback from both senior and peer discussants .

The forum provided a dynamic space for exchange, where participants engaged in in-depth discussions on research questions, methodologies, conceptual frameworks, and case selection. The format—combining presentations, discussant feedback, and open discussion—fostered a highly collaborative and constructive research environment.

This marked a key milestone for the project, and we are especially pleased that all 12 PhD candidates were already able to participate.

It is already clear how their work is progressing: research designs are becoming sharper, case selections more refined, and methodological approaches more robust. At the same time, a strong sense of collective development is emerging, with peer-to-peer feedback playing a central role in shaping the next stages of their research.