The International Studies Association is one of the oldest interdisciplinary associations dedicated to understanding international, transnational and global affairs. Founded in 1959, its more than 7,000 members span the globe – comprising academics, practitioners, policy experts, private sector workers and independent researchers, among others. The Association has long served as a central hub for the exchange of ideas and for networking and programmatic initiatives among those involved in the study, teaching and practice of International Studies.

Through its highly attended Annual Convention and regional/international conferences, as well as its respected journals and the Oxford Research Encyclopedia of International Studies, the Association promotes rigorous discussion, research and writing on a broad range of topics within International Studies, broadly construed. ISA also offers various funding, bridging and mentoring opportunities that facilitate the development of new ideas, relationships and skillsets. These opportunities provide a space for underrepresented groups, early career scholars and other professionals to grow in the field.

As an Association dedicated to posing and answering questions regarding some of the most pressing issues of our time, ISA is composed of a variety of Sections, Caucuses and Regions that seek to facilitate their members’ analysis of, and engagement with, the world of international, transnational and global affairs writ large.

The International Studies Association was initially founded in 1959 by a core group of scholars and practitioners dedicated to creating a member-driven organization. With the establishment of the ISA Constitution, the architects of ISA designed an organization that is governed by and answerable to its membership.

The first governing body of ISA is the Governing Council, made up of the elected leaders of its sub-units (regions, sections and caucuses), as well as individuals elected by the ISA membership as a whole. This group is responsible for making decisions regarding any changes or additions to ISA's policies and procedures.

The second portion of ISA governance consists of the standing committees and appointments. These committees and appointments are charged with evaluating ISA's status quo and making recommendations within their organizational area of focus. Committees and appointments are selected by the ISA president, at the discretion of the Governing Council, and report to the Governing Council.

ISA Headquarters manages the day-to-day organizational operations and the Executive Director oversees these administrative functions, ensuring that the organization fulfills the mandates of the Governing Council and continues to meet the needs of our members.