In the current volatile global landscape, 88 per cent of associations and not-for-profit organisations believe geopolitical instability will impact their operations, with 85 per cent stating it already has.
Conducted among 99 association and not-for-profit leaders, the research shows associations are struggling to adapt to mounting global pressures, including political instability, the rise of populism, and tightening regulatory and operational environments.
Only 13 per cent of organisations surveyed feel they are well prepared for uncertain times ahead.
In comparison, 14 per cent of organisations describe themselves as not prepared. A further 72 per cent say they are only somewhat prepared.
“Associations are increasingly navigating a complex geopolitical environment, with instability no longer an external factor but an embedded reality,” says Bas Schot, head of The Hague & Partners Convention Bureau.
“Our research reveals not just concern, but a clear call to action – associations must double down on governance, mission alignment and strategic communication if they are to weather what lies ahead.”
While 83 per cent of associations believe lessons from past crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and global financial crisis, are helping them respond today, 42 per cent say critical knowledge gaps remain.
“This research underlines how geopolitical developments are no longer tangential to association leadership – they are central,” says Ioannis Pallas, managing director of ESAE.
“Associations must evolve structurally and strategically, not only to stay relevant but to continue being forces of positive change in society.
“The insights provide a valuable roadmap for that journey.”
However, the grim outlook for European associations offers some bright news for the Australian business events industry.
Twenty-seven per cent of respondents say political instability has directly disrupted their ability to organise events in Europe, and 28 per cent have already moved their events to more politically stable regions, such as Australia.
Photo at top: iStock/DNY59.
