Submission deadline
Complete papers or extended abstracts should be submitted by this date.
Bogota, Colombia | December 9-10, 2026
5th International Conference on the Economics of Informality
A forum for rigorous academic and policy dialogue on informal economies, labor markets, development, institutions, and structural transformation.
Submission deadline
July 15, 2026
Acceptance notification
September 15, 2026
Conference dates
December 9-10, 2026
Organizers
Call for papers
Advancing research on the causes, dynamics, and consequences of informality.
The 5th International Conference on the Economics of Informality invites scholars, researchers, and policymakers to submit original research that advances the understanding of informal economies and their role in economic development.
The conference promotes rigorous and interdisciplinary dialogue between the academic community and policy practitioners, strengthening international research networks and expanding the frontier of knowledge across economic contexts.
Thematic areas
Submissions may address, but are not limited to, these topics.
Agriculture and rural labor markets
Aging and informality
Artificial intelligence and labor market transformation
Credit markets and financial inclusion
Labor market dynamics and employment transitions
Macroeconomic performance and structural transformation
Market institutions, segmentation, and regulation
Migration and mobility
Political economy of informality
Public policy and regulatory frameworks
Urban development and planning
Important dates
Key milestones for authors and participants.
Notification of acceptance
Authors will be notified after the review process.
Registration deadline
Accepted presenters should complete registration by this date.
Conference dates
The conference will take place in Bogota, Colombia.
Keynote speakers
Distinguished scholars and policy leaders.
Gary Fields
Cornell University
Professor Fields is internationally recognized for pioneering contributions to labor economics, development economics, and the study of labor markets in developing countries. His work on labor market segmentation, informal employment, and poverty dynamics has shaped both academic research and public policy.
William F. Maloney
World Bank
William F. Maloney is Chief Economist for the Latin America and Caribbean region at the World Bank. His work spans productivity, innovation, trade, growth, and labor market dynamics, with extensive research and policy engagement across Latin America.
Conference chairs
Fernando Jaramillo
Universidad de los Andes
Alain Desdoigts
IRD Colombia
Andres Garcia-Suaza
Universidad del Rosario
Cristina Fernandez
Universidad del Rosario
Carlos Medina
Banco de la Republica
Scientific committee
Hernando Zuleta
Universidad de los Andes
Oscar Becerra
Universidad de los Andes
Andrés Álvarez
Universidad de los Andes
Submission guidelines
Submit a complete paper or extended abstract in English.
- Include title, authors, affiliations, abstract, and contact email.
- Empirical, theoretical, and policy-oriented contributions are welcome.
- Accepted papers will be presented in parallel or plenary sessions.
- Authors will receive acceptance notifications by September 15, 2026.
Venue and travel
Bogota, Colombia
Venue, hotel, and travel information will be announced before registration opens. This section will include the host campus, nearby accommodation options, airport information, and practical guidance for international visitors.
Venue details will be updated soon.
Organizers
Supported by
