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The Border Policy Research Institute

 

The Border Policy Research Institute (BPRI) at Western Washington University is a multidisciplinary institute that undertakes research to inform policy-makers on matters related to the Canada–United States border, particularly in the Cascadia region.

Priority focus areas include:

  • Border management
  • Economic relationships
  • Cross-border mobility
  • Cross-border collaboration 

Western Washington University established the BPRI in 2005 after September 11th transformed border relations and security. The BPRI continues to promote research, academic programs, and public programming on critical policy issues affecting border crossings between British Columbia and Washington State. We work closely with cognate programs at the university and collaborate with many public and private entities throughout the region. 

Recent Publications 

News & Events

OECD to host WWU’s Laurie Trautman for opening remarks at Paris forum

Trautman speaking at a conference

Director of the Border Policy Research Institute to discuss international cross-border governance

Trautman will be hosted by the OECD and will share her expertise and experience working with organizations and initiatives in the Cascadia Region to advance cross-border cooperation. The Cascadia region is increasingly recognized as an international model of how regions can work together to transcend the barriers posed by an international border, and similar efforts in Europe provide an opportunity to exchange knowledge on these issues. The forum will foster a dialogue bringing together international perspectives on cross-border cooperation, including experts from the US – Mexico border, Peru, Europe, and other global regions.

In Point Roberts, tourists' slow return prompts questions about the peninsula’s future

Waterway on Pt. Roberts

Featuring interview with Dr. Laurie Trautman and border data research from BPRI.

The U.S.’s preoccupation with border security is steadily turning north

Peace Arch Park

Op-Ed in the Globe and Mail written by Dr. Laurie Trautman and Ross Distinguished Visiting Professor Edward Alden.

Remote US town reliant on northern border crossings struggling to survive

map of Point Roberts

"Spotlight on America" Interview with Dr. Laurie Trautman & Chris Daniels

(Photo: SBG)