IEA Organizational Structure and Governance
The International Economic Association (IEA) operates through a structured governance framework designed to maintain scientific rigor and strategic direction. The association is managed by two primary governing bodies: the Council and the Executive Committee, which together ensure the organization meets its objectives in the field of economics.
The IEA Council
The Council serves as the highest governing authority of the IEA. It is composed of representatives from all member associations, supplemented by a limited number of co-opted members. To ensure long-term stability and strategic alignment, the Council meets triennially (every three years).
During these triennial meetings, the Council performs several critical functions:
- Reviewing and refining the general policy of the association.
- Electing the President and other key officers.
- Appointing members of the Executive Committee for a three-year term of office.
The Executive Committee
While the Council sets the broad policy, the Executive Committee is responsible for the operational and scientific execution of the association's goals. This body consists of 15 members and 3 advisors.
The Executive Committee determines the specific subjects for specialists' conferences and other strategic projects based on the policies approved by the Council. To ensure the highest academic quality, the committee selects a chairman for the Program Committee to lead the scientific preparation of each project.
In practice, the IEA often engages an economist of outstanding distinction in the relevant field. This lead expert, in consultation with IEA officers and the Executive Committee, forms a team to undertake the scientific planning of the program and oversees the subsequent publication of the findings.
Day-to-day decisions regarding the association's work are handled by the President in consultation with other officers, with the Executive Committee being consulted frequently.
Key Facts
- Governing Bodies: The association is ruled by the Council and the Executive Committee.
- Council Frequency: Meetings occur every three years to review policy and elect officers.
- Committee Size: The Executive Committee comprises 15 members and 3 advisors.
- Term Length: Officers and Executive Committee members serve three-year terms.
- Scientific Process: Projects are led by a Program Committee chairman and often a distinguished economist.
Current Leadership
Following the Belgrade congress, the leadership structure as of June 2026 is as follows:
| Position | Name |
|---|---|
| President | Elhanan Helpman |
| President-elect | Eric Maskin |
| Vice President | Wendy Carlin |
| Treasurer | Omar Licandro |
| Secretary General | Lili Yan Ing |
| Past President | Dani Rodrik |
| Past past President | Kaushik Basu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who governs the IEA?
The IEA is governed by a Council, which consists of representatives from all member associations and a few co-opted members, and an Executive Committee that manages specific projects and scientific planning.
How often does the IEA Council meet?
The Council meets triennially, or once every three years, to review general policies and elect the association's leadership.
What is the role of the Executive Committee?
The Executive Committee decides on the subjects of specialists' conferences and projects, selects the Program Committee chairman, and oversees the scientific preparation and publication of these initiatives.
How are scientific projects planned within the IEA?
The IEA typically appoints a distinguished economist in the relevant subject to lead the scientific planning. This expert works with a chosen committee and IEA officers to organize the program and manage the resulting publication.
Who is the current President of the IEA as of June 2026?
As of June 2026, the President of the IEA is Elhanan Helpman.