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

This panel invites papers that explore the socio-economic dynamics of regions commonly referred to as 'left behind'—rural and former industrial places that have struggled to adapt their economies, institutions, and social infrastructures to rapidly changing technologies and markets. These 'left behind' places typically emerge from a strong historical reliance on specific industries such as manufacturing, mining, timber, or agriculture, all of which have declined over the past four decades. The challenges these places face in shifting their economic strategies and redefining their roles within the broader spatial division of labor are profound and multifaceted.

We are particularly interested in analyses that address the following critical questions:

1) ) Why is it difficult for 'left behind' places to transition and find new economic roles?
2) Which key actors, institutions, and policies play pivotal roles in either exacerbating or alleviating the challenges these regions encounter?
3) Through which mechanisms have some 'left behind' areas successfully redirected their developmental paths?

We are looking for papers that contribute to a broader understanding of these complex dynamics. We welcome diverse methodologies and interdisciplinary approaches.