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

This session explores the intricate interplay among educational science, environmental changes, migration, and the associated socio-political narratives. With environmental factors exacerbating socio-economic vulnerabilities a mainstream discourse on the challenges posed by global environmental changes and population movements permeates all public spheres, including the field of education. At the intersection of environmental humanities, law and public policies analysis, and migration studies, this session examines how education systems and dedicated bodies incorporate this discourse, adapt their actions, and assess the resulting outcomes. The ‘global citizenship education’ is for instance emphasized as a preventive measure against crises, strategically important in fostering social transformation. Highlighting the critical role of language in the discourse on environmental changes and migration through the lens of democratic education and social justice, this session aims to unfold its exploration at two levels: first, examining institutional frameworks such as websites, programs priorities, and second, exploring the impact on youth who are either directly affected by environmental changes or migration, or who are engaged with these topics. It does seek a comprehensive understanding of how educational practices (propose to) empower young people to act as agents of change within their communities and beyond, potentially mitigating the impacts of environmental displacements. The session aligns with the latest priorities of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Council (MOST 2024)*.

*ISA was est. by UNESCO in 1948. *About MOST UNESCO: https://www.unesco.org/en/management-social-transformations-most-programme