In mid-July, members of the Non-Objectivity of Risk to Rights research project and collaborating researchers gathered for a five-day Academic Writing Retreat. The retreat provided an opportunity to advance ongoing publication projects, strengthen collaboration within the team, and identify connections between the different strands of research developed within the project.
The retreat was carefully structured to maximize both academic feedback and dedicated writing time. Prior to the event, participants circulated work-in-progress drafts of their papers. The first day was devoted to a series of intensive “PLSC-style” feedback sessions, with one hour dedicated to each paper. This format ensured that all participants had read and commented on the drafts in advance, allowing for focused discussions and constructive feedback from the outset.
The following days combined individual writing sessions with smaller co-author meetings and informal discussions. This balance between concentrated work and collaboration created an environment that supported both productivity and intellectual exchange.
A significant contribution to the success of the retreat came from its unique setting and the hospitality of our hosts. The Sisters, supported by the Tutti Frutti community, welcomed the group and provided a warm and supportive environment throughout the week. The peaceful atmosphere of the venue, together with its emphasis on silence, reflection, and rhythm, offered ideal conditions for academic work and creative thinking.
The retreat also provided valuable opportunities for strengthening professional relationships and building community within the research team. Alongside the writing sessions, participants enjoyed conversations, shared meals, and explored the local surroundings together, contributing to a collaborative and collegial atmosphere.
We are grateful to all participants for their engagement and contributions. We would also like to acknowledge the financial support of the VUB Doctoral School of Humanities, FWO, and NCN, whose support made this retreat possible.
Below you can see a few photos from our writing retreat.
We are thankful for the financial support provided by the Flemish Government through the VUB Doctoral School of Humanities, the Research Foundation - Flanders (FWO), and the Polish National Science Centre (NCN).
