Become a Peer Reviewer for UNESCO's International Review of Education (IRE) —Details and How to Apply



The International Review of Education, a journal from UNESCO, is looking for scholars to help review articles. This journal has been around since 1931 and is very respected worldwide. It is a peer-review journal of education that publishes research articles on lifelong learning policy and practice. If you join, you might even get to be part of the editorial team one day. The journal is all about learning that happens throughout your life, and it's based in Hamburg at the UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning. They want people who are experts in education to help them make sure the articles they publish are high quality. It's a great chance to be part of something big and make a difference in the world of education.

Key Details

  • Applicants need to submit your statement of interest by August 31, 2026. 
  • This role is voluntary, so you won't get paid, but it's a great way to boost your academic reputation and meet new people in your field. 
  • Being part of a UNESCO-affiliated journal can really help your career, even if you're not getting a stipend.

Eligibility Requirements

The International Review of Education is looking for scholars from all fields to help with reviewing. It doesn't matter if you're just starting out or if you have a lot of experience - what's important is that you really know your stuff in one or more of the areas they care about.

 They're especially looking for people who are experts in things like lifelong learning policies, adult education, and teaching people to read and write as adults. 

They also want to hear from people who know about learning in non-traditional settings, like online or at work, as well as those who are familiar with human rights, community education, and education in places where there's been conflict. 

Additionally, they're interested in people who have knowledge about indigenous education, decolonizing education, and education and technology. If you have expertise in any of these areas, you might be a good fit to help review for the journal. They want to make sure that the people reviewing are truly knowledgeable in their fields, so they can provide high-quality feedback. 

The journal IRE is special because it has a lot of researchers and scholars from the Global South. This means they really want scholars from different parts of the world, especially those who are often left out, to join in. 

If you're an African scholar working in education, you're a great fit for this journal - you're not just an addition, you're a priority. They want to hear your thoughts and ideas, and they believe you have a lot to offer.

What Reviewers Do

Being a reviewer for IRE, you'll look over 2 to 4 manuscripts each year, which isn't too much to handle. But what's really cool about this role is that it's not just a one-time thing. IRE wants scholars who are interested in getting more involved with the journal over time. 

As a reviewer, you might even get the chance to join the team of consulting editors or the editorial board, which is a great way to get more connected to one of the top academic publications in the field. So, this opportunity is more like a starting point for a longer-term relationship with IRE, rather than just a single task.

Required Documents

  • A statement of interest, including a list of the main areas you'd be interested in reviewing within, along with your CV.
  • Application Process
  • Identify which of IRE's listed subject areas genuinely align with your expertise
  • Write a statement of interest naming those areas clearly
  • Prepare your CV
  • Send an email to the IRE Editorial Team, their address is ire@unesco.org.
  • Submit before 31 August 2026

Major Considerations

This opportunity stands out from the usual grant or fellowship applications. For one, it doesn't involve funding, and the process is relatively simple - you just need to submit a statement of interest and your CV, rather than a lengthy proposal or budget. What's key here is showing that you have genuine expertise and a strong research background in one or more of the areas that IRE is focused on. 

The journal is looking to build a team with deep knowledge in a range of specializations. They want to create a pool of experts who can really contribute to the journal's mission. So, if you're interested in this opportunity, make sure you can demonstrate your relevant skills and experience.

This is a great opportunity for new scholars to gain recognition and credibility in a well-known international journal, and they don't need a lot of experience to do it. For scholars who are already established, it's a chance to make a real impact on the field of global education and potentially move into a more senior editorial position. It's a win-win situation for both new and establish scholars who get to build their careers, and make a meaningful contribution to the field.

Should You Apply?

This journal is perfect for experts in adult education, lifelong learning, and literacy, especially those from underrepresented communities. It's a great fit for scholars who want to be part of a community that values ongoing contribution and growth, rather than just looking for a one-time credential. If you're genuinely interested in academic peer review and want to develop your skills over time, this journal is an excellent choice. 

The journal is actively working to increase representation from the Global South and underrepresented academic communities, so if you're from one of these backgrounds, you'll find a welcoming and supportive environment. By joining the journal's team of reviewers, you'll have the opportunity to grow into deeper editorial involvement and make a meaningful contribution to the field of adult education.

Post a Comment

0 Comments