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.