This special issue focuses on understanding how tensions and paradoxes—defined as persistent, interdependent, and often contradictory demands— emerge, interact, and evolve within project environments, particularly in complex project settings. It invites contributions that move beyond viewing tensions as problems to resolve, instead examining how they can be navigated, leveraged, and even harnessed to improve project outcomes. Emphasis is placed on multilevel dynamics (individual, team, organizational, and interorganizational); the role of context, time, and emerging technologies; and key debates in project studies such as sustainability, stakeholder management, and project learning, with the aim of advancing theory.

Authors are invited to submit an extended abstract (1,000–1,200 words) by 31 October 2026. Selected authors will subsequently be invited to submit a full manuscript for consideration in the Special Issue.

For more informations watch this Video:

PMJ Call for papers “On Tensions and Paradoxes inProject Environments” | Project Management Journal

or take a look at the PDF.