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

This session will explore the intricate relationship between civil society, democratization, and social inequality in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Since the Arab Spring, hopes have been dashed for democratization to the despair of many observers. Yet amidst political transitions and socio-economic shifts, civil society plays a pivotal role in fostering democratic processes and advocating for social justice. However, the MENA region grapples with persistent social inequalities rooted in historical, cultural, and economic disparities, which pose significant challenges to democratization process. Through a comprehensive review of literature and empirical evidence, this session will explore how civil society initiatives intersect with and influence the dynamics of democratization and social inequality in the MENA context. The session calls for papers to examine the roles of various actors, including grassroots organizations, NGOs, and advocacy groups that would shed light on the complexities of promoting democratic governance while addressing systemic inequities, offering insights for policymakers, scholars, and practitioners alike.