Call for Special Issue Proposals — Studies in Family Planning
Deadline: December 1, 2025
Studies in Family Planning invites proposals for special issues addressing current and emerging topics in sexual and reproductive health research. We seek guest editors (researchers, scholars, and practitioners) who can develop innovative issues that advance knowledge, foster scholarly dialogue, and contribute to evidence-based practice and policy.
About the Journal
Studies in Family Planning is a leading peer-reviewed journal publishing public health, social science, and biomedical research from around the world. The journal advances knowledge and policy dialogue in sexual and reproductive health, rights, and justice, covering issues such as fertility, family planning, HIV/STIs, abortion, and maternal and child health.
The journal disseminates research that helps ensure efforts to improve sexual and reproductive health, rights, and choices—particularly for underserved populations—are grounded in rigorous scientific evidence. We publish research articles, reports, commentaries, and data papers. Studies was founded in 1963 and is published by Wiley on behalf of the Population Council.
Proposal Guidelines
If you are interested in proposing a special issue, please submit a one-page concept note. Summarize the topic, contribution to the field/journal, and include proposed paper titles and funding information. Tell us if you plan to have an open call for papers, solicit them, or if they are the result of a conference.
If the Editorial Committee is interested in pursuing your special issue, we will ask you to prepare a proposal with the following:
- Title and Theme: A concise title and description of the proposed theme, highlighting its significance, timeliness, and relevance to the journal’s readership.
- Guest Editor Information: Names, affiliations, contact information, and brief bios, emphasizing expertise and editorial experience.
- Rationale: Justification for the special issue, including how it addresses gaps in the literature, responds to emerging trends, or advances the field.
- Scope and Objectives: A clear articulation of the issue’s scope, objectives, and potential impact on research, practice, or policy.
- Potential Contributors: A preliminary list of scholars who might be invited to submit manuscripts (noting if final issues will also include open submissions).
- Timeline: Proposed schedule, including key milestones (call for papers release, submission deadline, peer review, revisions, and publication).
- Funding Information: Organizers of special issues are required to pay open access fees for all articles published. Some authors will have transformative agreements or other funding to cover these costs.
Please submit concept notes, proposals, or questions to rfriedman@popcouncil.org with the subject line: “Special Issue Proposal: [Title].” Proposals will be reviewed for relevance, editorial team qualifications, potential to attract strong submissions, alignment with the journal’s scope, feasibility, and overall impact.
We look forward to receiving your proposals.