5th ISA Forum of Sociology (6-11 July 2025)

The proposed thematic section seeks to cast a discerning eye on the multifaceted tapestry of poverty in old age - a concern that has risen to the forefront of global discourse as a major social challenge of the 21st century. Esteemed bodies such as the United Nations, the European Union and the Council of Europe have highlighted the issue in numerous declarations, signaling a collective recognition of the pressing need to recalibrate social safety nets and public policy frameworks in response to ageing populations. There is a pressing need to dissect the intricate layers of poverty in old age, delving into the nuanced interplay between demographic trends, intricate pathways through which individuals navigate poverty across various stages of life and the robustness of societal support structures to illuminate the critical junctures where old age intersects with other axes of inequality. This comprehensive approach aims to understand not only the 'why' of poverty, but also the 'how' - how societal structures, cultural narratives and policy decisions collectively influence the lived experiences of older people living in poverty. By bringing together scholars from diverse geographical and disciplinary backgrounds, the section aims to foster a rich dialogue on the intersection of social structures, poverty, old age and ageing. It also seeks to contribute to a deeper understanding of the systemic and individual factors that perpetuate poverty across the lifespan. In doing so, it aims to pave the way for more equitable and informed approaches to addressing old-age poverty.