A new white paper, jointly released by The Hague & Partners Convention Bureau and the European Society of Association Executives (ESAE), reveals a sector grappling with transformation amidst escalating uncertainty.
Titled Exploring the Geopolitical Landscape: Implications for Associations, the white paper is based on qualitative research and a global survey of 99 association leaders. It identifies four domains where strategic shifts are not only necessary but urgent: event planning, digital security, diversity and inclusion, and innovation.
“Unlike previous studies, this paper captures a sector at a strategic crossroads, one where resilience is being redefined by geopolitical change through action in four key areas,” said Bas Schot, Head of The Hague & Partners Convention Bureau.
The findings are striking: 85% of organisations have already faced disruption due to geopolitical tensions, and nearly 90% anticipate future complications. Yet only 13% feel adequately prepared.
Four Areas of Strategic Recalibration
Events: With 28% of associations having relocated events to more stable territories and 26% reporting direct geopolitical impact on planning, venue selection now requires a heightened degree of values-based risk assessment.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI): Over 60% of respondents identified DEI as vital to organisational stability, though nearly a fifth still regard it as ancillary. Legislative backlash and political sentiment are directly shaping event locations and strategic alliances.
Cybersecurity: The digital shift has exposed associations to new vulnerabilities. While 81% voiced concern over cyber threats, nearly a quarter lack any formal protections, and only 15% maintain cyber insurance. The gap between digital advancement and security preparedness is widening.
Innovation: Seventy-two percent of associations cite alternative revenue streams as a priority, and 57% are pursuing digital transformation. However, only 22% possess a formal innovation strategy, indicating room for more systemic integration.
Ioannis Pallas, ESAE’s Managing Director, emphasised the need for courageous and strategic leadership: “This is not about managing exceptions—it’s about redefining normalcy. Association leaders must think structurally and act boldly. The paper provides not only analysis, but a roadmap for action grounded in credibility and collective intent.”
The Hague, positioning itself as more than just a meeting destination, is championing the role of cities as strategic partners. “From rethinking where events are held to how boards are governed, associations are building new models of operational and ethical resilience,” Schot added.
To access the full white paper, click here.