GNPHR Writing Project – Contributor Guidelines

The Global Network of Psychologists for Human Rights (GNPHR) is seeking short, accessible articles (or “opinion / analysis pieces”) that explore issues at the intersection of psychology and human rights.

These pieces will be published on the GNPHR website and promoted through LinkedIn to increase their reach. Contributors are not expected to produce a fully polished final draft on their own; editorial support will be provided by the GNPHR team.

Purpose

We are looking for articles that help readers better understand contemporary issues where psychological insight and human rights concerns intersect.

Strong pieces should:

  • Address a clearly defined issue relevant to both psychology and human rights, and explain why it matters now – whether in terms of its psychological, social, cultural, or policy significance
  • Draw on relevant research, clinical evidence, practice, or human rights principles to show how both fields can deepen our understanding of the issue
  • Offer insight, analysis, or a fresh perspective – not simply a summary of existing knowledge
  • Translate complex knowledge into clear, engaging, public‑facing writing without sacrificing intellectual dept
  • Encourage readers to think critically about the broader implications for policy, practice, research, advocacy, or everyday life

Audience

Articles should be written for a mixed audience:

  • Professionals (e.g., psychologists, researchers, social scientists)
  • An informed general public with interest in the issues covered

This means the writing should be credible and well-informed, while remaining accessible to non-specialists. Avoid unnecessary jargon, and explain technical concepts clearly when they are needed.

Structure

Contributors do not need to follow a rigid template, but the article should generally include:

  1. A strong opening hook / introduction: Start with a compelling statement, question, tension, or example that draws the reader in immediately.
  2. A clear statement of the issue: Identify the core issue early, clarify what is at stake, and show why it matters in the current context. Where possible, make the issue tangible through a concrete example, tension, or real-world scenario.
  3. The human rights and psychology dimensions: Clarify how the issue relates to psychology and to human rights. For example: What does psychological research say? What are the relevant human rights principles, norms, or legal frameworks? Why does this intersection matter?
  4. Key Implications and takeaways: Draw out what this means for policy, practice, research, and society at large. End with concise takeaways or questions that invite further reflection or action.

Use short, digestible sections with clear subheadings so readers can easily follow the argument.

Voice and Tone

We are aiming for writing that is:

  • Clear, digestible, and accessible to non-specialists without being simplistic (it should remain intellectually sharp)
  • More journalistic or essay-style rather than purely academic
  • Punchy, engaging, and willing to raise controversial or provocative questions, without becoming partisan or politically one-sided.
  • Thoughtful, critical, and curious (ask key questions rather than just stating facts)

Length and excerpt 

  • Main article: approximately 500 words
  • Short excerpt: 40-60 words summarising the core point of the piece (used for the website and social media).

Editorial process 

The GNPHR team will provide editorial support. This may include feedback on structure, tone, clarity, and alignment with the organisation’s goals and audience.