Leading international scholarly association

dedicated to the systematic study and exchange of ideas, information and analysis of international border.

Association for Borderlands Studies

Founded in 1976 with the original impetus for the study of the United States-Mexico borderlands, the Association has experienced a steady expansion and transformation in recent years.

ABS Annual Conference

Research on cultural heritage and borders reveal stories of communities that defy barriers and categories.

ABS World Conference

The ABS World Conference aims to foster dialogue and exchange among networks, institutions, and associations.

Regional Meetings

An opportunity to discover border regions’ diverse landscapes, cultures, and interconnectedness.

Journal

The primary publication of the Association for Borderlands Studies is the Journal of Borderlands Studies, published six times a year.

La Frontera

The Association for Borderlands Studies Newsletter. Download the latest edition of La Frontera or visit our digital archive below for past versions.

Become a Member

It is an exciting time to join the ABS. Interest in our field of work is growing, and the need for knowledge and expertise on borders and transborder processes and communities is increasing in universities, government, community organizations, multilateral institutions, and the private sector.

Lifetime Awards

Irasema Coronado, Ph.D.

Director of the School of Transborder Studies
Arizona State University

Dr. Coronado was selected to receive the 2023 ABS Lifetime Award and was presented the award at this year’s annual meeting in Tempe, Arizona.

Stephen Mumme, Ph.D.

Professor of Political Science
Colorado State University

Dr. Mumme was selected to receive the 2020 ABS Lifetime Award and was presented the award at the ABS annual meeting.

Kathleen (Kathy) Staudt, Ph.D.

Professor Emerita
University of Texas at El Paso

Dr. Staudt was selected to receive the 2019 ABS Lifetime Award and was presented the award at the ABS annual meeting.