ACADEMIC WRITING RETREATS: UNLOCKING NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR UKRAINIAN SCHOLARS

Abstract

In the «publish or perish» era, effective research communication and publishing are crucial for academic success. This paper explores the potential of academic writing retreats as a tool for supporting Ukrainian scholars, especially in the challenging context of the ongoing war.

Purpose. The aim is to analyse how writing retreats could enhance scholarly productivity, emotional resilience, and community-building among Ukrainian academics facing significant professional and personal upheavals.

Methodology. Through a combination of autoethnographic reflection, informal expert discussions, and thematic literature analysis, the paper outlines the functions, structure, benefits and challenges of writing retreats, with particular emphasis on adapting some models to the Ukrainian context.

Scientific novelty. The paper discusses how writing retreats can be integrated into Ukrainian academic culture, with recommendations for practical implementation, including hybrid and virtual formats, and international collaboration.

Conclusions. Academic writing retreats represent a promising and underexplored opportunity for supporting Ukrainian scholars in a time of ongoing upheavals. By providing dedicated space, time, and community support, retreats can foster academic output, enhance writing skills, and promote emotional resilience. While this concept is still relatively new within the Ukrainian academic context, adapting established models to local needs through both grassroots initiatives and institutional programs offers a feasible and impactful path forward. Careful planning, sensitivity to scholars’ circumstances, and strategic partnerships will be essential for success. Further research and experimentation with retreat formats, particularly in virtual and hybrid formats, will help to embed this practice sustainably into Ukraine’s evolving academic culture, offering scholars not only a tool for individual advancement but also a means of creating communities of practice and strengthening the broader academic network in Ukraine.

It concludes by urging further empirical studies to assess the long-term impacts of such initiatives on research output, mental health, and academic careers, thereby contributing to the resilience and sustainability of the Ukrainian academic community during and after the ongoing crisis.