Guest Editors: Andrzej Jakubowski, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University (andrzej.jakubowski@mail.umcs.pl), Dominika Studzińska, University of Gdańsk, Sylwia Dołzbłasz, University of Wrocław, Małgorzata Leśniak-Johann, University of Wrocław

Borders have re-emerged as a key concern in European territorial debates. Over the past decade, processes of integration have increasingly coexisted with selective re-bordering, crisis-driven closures and renewed geopolitical tensions. Migration pressures, pandemics, war, security concerns and climate-related challenges have reshaped the institutional, political and socio-economic context in which borders operate. Rather than signalling a simple disruption or reversal of integration, these developments point to a broader transformation of borders and their territorial implications across Europe.

At the same time, these developments coexist with (and in some cases even stimulate) the deepening of functional cross-border integration, manifested in persistent mobility flows, cross-border labour markets, service provision and infrastructural interdependencies. This highlights the complex and non-linear nature of contemporary bordering processes, in which integration and re-bordering unfold simultaneously and unevenly in European space.

This Thematic Issue of Europa XXI invites contributions examining how integration, re-bordering and territorial development interact in border regions under conditions of change. The focus is on border regions as dynamic territorial systems shaped by evolving border regimes, multi-level governance arrangements and functional interdependencies, rather than as static peripheral zones.

Submission procedure and timeline

Deadline for abstract submission: 15 February 2026
Notification for full paper invitation: 28 February 2026
Deadline for paper submission: 31 August 2026