Network
The ARL is a unique network of experts in spatial sciences and spatial practice. Scientists and practitioners work together on an equal footing – independently, interdisciplinarily and on a temporary basis.
The aim is to jointly develop solutions to current challenges in spatial development. Beyond its working committees, the ARL maintains an active, growing network. Participation is theme-based, in formats with clear tasks and time limits.
The office supports this cooperation in terms of organisation and communication. Supraregional, international and digital formats open up new perspectives and continuously expand the network. Those who get involved with the ARL contribute their expertise – and gain new perspectives in return.
This creates space for exchange, trust and joint learning.
Members of the Academy (MdA)
The members of the ARL actively shape the content of the ARL's work, e.g. by proposing new working formats, participating in research planning, or through committees such as the Review Commission and the Election Committee.
The ARL currently has 143 members. Members of the academy are elected on the basis of nominations and appointed for a term of ten years.
The key criteria are:
- expertise in spatial science or planning practice,
- above-average commitment to interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary cooperation,
- participation in the ARL's substantive work and strategic committees.
> criteria for the election and re-election of ARL members (PDF - German only)
Contributors to the network
In addition to the elected members, the ARL network consists of over 800 other experts. They are appointed through open calls for membership for specific topics and formats. Contributors bring professional perspectives from science, administration, planning practice or civil society – for a limited period of time, but with a big impact.
What makes the network special?
The ARL network is interdisciplinary, application-oriented and open.
It thrives on:
- broad expertise: geography, urban and spatial planning, law, environmental, social and economic sciences,
- professional diversity: from universities, planning authorities, research institutions, ministries and NGOs,
- collaborative work: on research questions, transfer projects and dialogue formats on an equal footing.
ARL International Community
The ARL International Community is the next step toward the systematic and strategic integration of international contributors. It is open to experts from academia, planning practice, and policy-related administration worldwide who are concerned with issues of sustainable spatial development and wish to engage in an interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary network.
As a low-threshold entry format, the community offers the opportunity to familiarize oneself with the ARL's working methods, topics, and people—while also forming the basis for attracting international members. The aim is to promote international knowledge exchange, stimulate joint research and transfer projects, and further strengthen the ARL's international visibility.
With digital and hybrid formats such as the ARL Lunch Talks, the Summer School, and the European Working Groups, the ARL creates spaces for continuous exchange across national borders. Collaborations with international partners – such as the Regional Studies Association (RSA) – underscore this approach.
The ARL International Community invites anyone interested in comparative perspectives in urban, regional, and spatial planning who would like to work together on how spaces around the world can be designed to be equitable, resilient, and sustainable.
👉Join the ARL International Community and register at arl-international.com
