As the Call for Papers Campaign begins for the ISJ Leaders in Security Conference 2026, contributors are invited to share insights that reflect the realities senior security leaders are navigating today.
Conversations at last year’s ISJ Leaders in Security Conference highlighted the impact of AI on decision-making, the expanding remit of the security function and the need to break down silos between physical, cyber and information security.
Speakers also examined emerging internal risks, new approaches to developing security talent and the geopolitical and operational dynamics shaping strategy across the Middle East.
These discussions reinforced the value of practical frameworks, evidence-based foresight and candid lessons learned – setting a benchmark for the type of contribution that drives meaningful dialogue.
As we look ahead to this year’s event – taking place 6 May at the Grosvenor House Hotel, Dubai Marina – ISJ once again invites you to contribute your perspective.
As a senior security leader, what is keeping you awake at night? What challenges are your teams facing? How are you protecting executives on the move or securing your site after hours? Does it take an incident for the value of your function to be fully recognised?
These are the questions that demand honest, experience-led answers – and you may be uniquely placed to provide them. In particular, we are keen to hear from those operating in the Middle East and Africa, whose perspectives will be extremely valuable given the event’s location.
Insights from beyond the MEA region that offer transferable lessons are, of course, also welcomed.
In a time of accelerating change and uncertainty, it has never been more important to invite proposals that deliver practical insight.
Our aim is to once again shape an agenda rooted in experience and education – one that looks beyond buzzwords to focus on real-world priorities. The 2026 event will prioritise clear, experience-driven thinking over promotional content.
Submissions are encouraged from security professionals, researchers, subject-matter experts and more who can offer forward-looking perspectives, strategies and lessons learned from a range of different operational environments.
All contributions should align with the event’s commitment to high-level dialogue, meaningful exchange and the advancement of the security profession.
‘Enrich knowledge, challenge assumptions’
“As a global industry, we are preparing for another 12 months likely to be shaped by technological advancement, conflict, economic pressures, natural disasters, hybrid threats and more,” explained James Thorpe, Editor of ISJ and 2026 Conference Manager.
“Just as our world becomes increasingly interconnected, the social fabric continues to strain under emerging threats and pressures, putting many societies and environments at risk.
“Security leaders across the globe are now, more than ever, called upon to stay attuned to these changes and to maximise the impact of their people and technological investments in protecting teams, assets and organisations.
“As our profession grows and evolves, our responsibility is to enrich our knowledge, challenge our assumptions and invest in our own development.
“Whether you are a CEO or CSO, I encourage you to share your insights and join us at the ISJ Leaders in Security Conference 2026 in Dubai, a city that exemplifies innovation, strategic vision and world-class infrastructure – making it an ideal setting for leaders to connect, learn and shape the future of security.”
To find out more about the event, click here.
Are you a senior professional working in security, risk or crisis management? We want to hear from you! Share the challenges you face in securing, managing or operating your business and the solutions you seek to enhance efficiency, insight and effectiveness.
Complete the survey here (deadline 30 January 2026)