HQ #121 / War & Peace: How to Get Back to the Boardroom in a World Turned Upside Down!

In an increasingly fragmented global landscape, risk management has become one of the main responsibilities for associations. Geopolitical instability is having a strong impact on associations, leading to changes in supply chains, regulatory challenges and reputational risks.

For associations, this is not a theoretical moment. Visa restrictions, rising costs, polarised discourse, and reputational risks shape how and where we meet. In this environment, associations have an opportunity to remain a steady light amid uncertainty.

In this edition, HQ has prepared a collection of exclusive stories, survey analyses, industry study reviews, in-field reports, and previews of major events happening all over Europe. The Events Industry Alliance launched a campaign in July urging UK and EU policymakers to establish a Mutual Recognition Agreement for the business events sector. The Business of Events published its 2025 International Planner Sentiment Report in June revealing a sharp divergence in the priorities of event planners across global markets.

Set to debut in November 2025, Berlin Freedom Week aims to transform the German capital into a global platform for pro-democracy leaders. Later this year, research-focused conferences on clean energy and Arctic resilience will bring scientists, policymakers and delegates to shape future strategies in Reykjavík .

Changing political landscapes and growing polarisation are redefining how, where and even why associations meet, according to the 2025 Global Sociopolitical Impact Survey carried out by IAPCO. Finally, the Hague & Partners Convention Bureau, in collaboration with the European Society of Association Executives, presented a comprehensive white paper at IMEX Frankfurt in May that explores the Geopolitical Scenario for the sector and its implications for Associations.

Don't miss this #121 edition of Headquarters, entirely dedicated to geopolitical instability and business disruption in the association events sector.