We warmly invite submissions for a special issue of the New Zealand Population Review focused on the theme: “The Business of Population”.
Demographic change is influencing economies in profound and far-reaching ways. Shifts in fertility, mortality, migration, population distribution and characteristics affect not only public services but also the structure, performance, and future direction of the market economy.
While much research has focused on implications for sectors such as health and education, there is growing recognition that demographic change also presents major opportunities and challenges for businesses and mixed public–private sectors. Changing age structures, evolving consumer preferences, and labour market dynamics are transforming demand, workforce availability, and patterns of investment across
industries—from housing and infrastructure to tourism, energy, and local services.
This special issue seeks to advance understanding of how population change interacts with economic activity. We welcome contributions that explore the overall theme of “The Business of Population”, for example:
- The effects of demographic change on markets, industries, and firms
- Labour supply, workforce dynamics, and skills availability
- Population ageing and its implications for consumption and production
- Regional population change and local economic development
- The role of migration in shaping business environments
- Market responses to demographic trends, including innovation and adaptation
- Policy, regulation, and market failures in the context of demographic change
We encourage submissions from a wide range of disciplinary perspectives and methodological approaches. We especially welcome submissions from early career researchers and Māori and Pacific scholars. Both academic and policy-relevant contributions are welcome.
Submission Details
Please submit a proposal (including type of contribution, tentative title, and a short abstract) by Sunday 31 May 2026 (or simply get in touch with us for informal enquiries and ideas) to: shugi.sambasibam@waikato.ac.nz
- Full papers: 5,000–8,000 words
- Research notes: 3,500–5,000 words (Word counts exclude tables, figures, and references)
Authors of accepted proposals will be invited to present preliminary work at a one-day workshop (mid-2026; University of Waikato, or online).
- Full paper submission deadline: 1 September 2026
- Review and revisions: Late 2026
- Publication: Late 2026 / early 2027
We look forward to receiving your proposals and to bringing together a stimulating collection of research on this timely and important topic.
Special Issue Editors
- Professor Michael Cameron
- Dr Shugi Samba Sibam
- Emeritus Professor Jacques Poot
University of Waikato
