The Regional Studies Association (RSA) invites members, partners, and the wider regional research community to attend the public launch of the new 2026–2030 RSA Strategy in January 2026. This live online event will offer attendees a first look at the Association’s refreshed vision and priorities for the next four years, and provide an open forum to ask questions and share reflections directly with RSA leadership.
Presenters include:
- Heike Mayer, RSA President, University of Bern, Switzerland
- Sarah Ayres, RSA Chair, University of Bristol, UK
- Alan Kinder, RSA Chief Executive, Regional Studies Association, UK
As regions around the world face mounting social, economic, political, and environmental pressures, the need for strong, evidence-based regional research has never been greater. The RSA’s new strategic plan responds to this moment by outlining how the Association will champion the value of regional studies, support researchers navigating an increasingly challenging academic landscape, and promote sustainable and equitable regional development.
During the event, the speakers will:
- Reveal the RSA 2026–2030 Strategic Plan
- Explain how the strategy was shaped, including the consultations and priorities that informed its development
- Unpack the plan’s core principles and commitments.
- Outline how the strategy will be implemented and how members can get involved
- Host a live Q&A session, giving attendees the chance to post comments, raise questions, and contribute to the discussion
This unveiling is more than a presentation; it is an opportunity to help shape the next chapter of the RSA. Whether you are a researcher, policymaker, practitioner, student, or simply passionate about regional development, your insights and questions will help guide the Association’s support for its global community in the years ahead.
We warmly encourage you to join us online on the 14th January 2026, engage with RSA leadership, and participate in this important dialogue about the future of regional research. Your voice matters, and this event is an open invitation to help shape the work that lies ahead.