The Division undertakes both commissioned and independent academic research.

Zambia Election Research Network (ZERN)

The Division hosts the Zambia Election Research Network (ZERN), a network of academics interested in Zambian democracy and the electoral process. The network has collectively produced high-impact, evidence-based research recognised by international and diplomatic organisations. By filling a notable gap in Zambian discourse with rigorous analysis, the Division helps steer public debate beyond media hype.

Political-Economy Analysis

SAIPAR provides political-economy analysis on topics including economic institutions, political parties, governance and corruption, the judiciary, the mining sector, and public policies. This multidisciplinary work is often carried out in conjunction with other divisions.

The Division has published books, policy briefs, journal articles, occasional papers, research reports, and editorial opinions. In 2020, it coordinated the publication of Democracy and Electoral Politics in Zambia (T. Banda, M. Hinfelaar, O. Kaaba, and M. Ndulo; Brill Publishers, Leiden) — available at Brill Publishers.

Following the 2021 Zambian general elections, the Division coordinated a special edition of the Journal of East African Studies featuring exclusive articles reflecting on the elections.

The Division also runs the Zambia Social Science Journal (ZSSJ), an interdisciplinary, peer-reviewed journal focused on scholarly work in the social sciences and development, serving as a forum for argument, debate, review, reflection, and discussion.