Armenian Scholar Mher Sahakyan Nominated for International Studies Association (ISA) Governing Council

The International Studies Association (ISA), a premier global network for international affairs and political science scholars, has confirmed its candidates for the 2026 Governing Council elections. Among the nominees is Armenian scholar and Associate Professor Mher Sahakyan, who is running for the role of At-Large Representative. The announcement was shared by the "China-Eurasia" Council for Political and Strategic Research.

Selection Criteria and Reaction

Following a rigorous review of applications submitted from around the globe, the ISA nominating committee approved just seven candidates for the ballot. This selection was based on the scholars' academic achievements, professional reputation, commitment to scientific values, and past service to the association.

"It is a great honor to be nominated for a position on the ISA Governing Council. I am grateful to everyone whose support played a vital role in this achievement," Sahakyan stated.

Academic Background and Global Recognition

The US-based ISA is widely recognized as one of the most authoritative academic bodies in the field of international relations, with its Governing Council responsible for shaping both strategic and academic policies. Mher Sahakyan is an established expert in China's foreign policy and Eurasian geopolitics. He is the founder and editor-in-chief of the "Eurasian Geopolitics" book series published by Routledge, and has authored reference works published by Taylor & Francis.

The scholar also serves as a visiting lecturer at universities in France and China. During the 2024-2025 academic year, he conducted research as a Fulbright Scholar at Johns Hopkins University's School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS). Prior to this, from 2020-2022, he worked as an AsiaGlobal Fellow at the University of Hong Kong.