Reflections on the Political Psychology Section conference and AGM in Liverpool

On Tuesday 5 April, the Political Psychology Section hosted a one-day conference and its 2022 annual general meeting. The event was hybrid, with attendees – practitioners, academics, students and others – being able to join in person at 54 James Street, Liverpool, or virtually via Zoom. Topics on the agenda included the crisis facing democracy, climate change, collective action, and the war in Ukraine.

I renewed my membership with the BPS earlier this year to become a graduate member. I joined some sections that are related to my academic research interests (factors impacting the student experience over the academic lifespan), and degrees in BSc (Hons) Psychology & Child Development and MSc Psychology Research Methods. I joined the Political Psychology Section too, due to a growing interest in political psychology and the impact of politics – both UK and international politics – on the student experience, from my current democracy coordinator job in a students' union.

The presentations, discussions and video premiere at the AGM provided a useful introduction to the field, especially due to the range of topics. Some of the content reminded me of content from social psychology lectures from my undergraduate degree. It was also great to talk to others who are also interested in politics and democracy from a psychology perspective, and/or developed an interest in the field from personal lived experiences. At the end of the AGM, it was nice for newer section members (including myself) to have the opportunity to present a short review of the event. For me personally, this was a highlight of the event.

Furthermore, it was interesting to identify similarities and differences between AGMs, committee appointments, elections and other democratic processes, between the BPS and student unions, as student unions are also democratic membership organisations. As this AGM was the first hybrid AGM that I have attended, I would like to use the insight and learning that I have gained, and apply it to my current job, where I organise and deliver all-member meetings (which are currently all online).

Finally, I would definitely recommend to other section members to attend a future AGM! I would be happy to be contacted via email ([email protected]) to answer any questions as a first-time attendee of a section AGM.