This preface introduces recent advances in vector optimization and the image space analysis (ISA) approach. Vector optimization is a methodology for analyzing and solving decision problems with multiple, infinite, or set-valued indicators. It has wide applications in engineering, economics, finance, ecology, and military management. Since the 1970s, many important works have been published, including books and special issues in journals. From 2008 to 2018, Springer has published nine book series on vector optimization. The ISA approach focuses on analyzing optimization problems in the image space. It was first proposed by F. Giannessi in 1980 and has been used to study constrained optimization problems and variational inequalities. ISA provides a unified framework for nonconvex, discontinuous, and non-smooth optimization problems. In 2005, the first monograph on ISA was published by Springer, with over 200 papers published since. This special issue is dedicated to Professor Harold P. Benson on his 68th birthday, recognizing his contributions to mathematical programming, optimization, and vector optimization. The issue includes 18 papers on recent advances in vector optimization and the ISA approach, particularly on applying ISA to study vector optimization problems. The authors and referees are thanked for their contributions. The special issue aims to stimulate further research in the field.This preface introduces recent advances in vector optimization and the image space analysis (ISA) approach. Vector optimization is a methodology for analyzing and solving decision problems with multiple, infinite, or set-valued indicators. It has wide applications in engineering, economics, finance, ecology, and military management. Since the 1970s, many important works have been published, including books and special issues in journals. From 2008 to 2018, Springer has published nine book series on vector optimization. The ISA approach focuses on analyzing optimization problems in the image space. It was first proposed by F. Giannessi in 1980 and has been used to study constrained optimization problems and variational inequalities. ISA provides a unified framework for nonconvex, discontinuous, and non-smooth optimization problems. In 2005, the first monograph on ISA was published by Springer, with over 200 papers published since. This special issue is dedicated to Professor Harold P. Benson on his 68th birthday, recognizing his contributions to mathematical programming, optimization, and vector optimization. The issue includes 18 papers on recent advances in vector optimization and the ISA approach, particularly on applying ISA to study vector optimization problems. The authors and referees are thanked for their contributions. The special issue aims to stimulate further research in the field.