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

The Palestinian struggle for liberation has long been a topic of discussion and analysis by academics of various fields. However, the recent devastating war on the Gaza Strip, the subsequent human tragedy it has caused, and the contradictions of the liberal international order that it revealed, have amplified academic debates about Palestine. Various themes including colonialism, imperialism, capitalism, academic freedom, resistance and global solidarity have become central to academic discussions. Moreover, many sociologists have refused to remain silent in the face of the systemic violence perpetrated against Palestinians. Letters calling for a halt to the bloodshed have been written and signed by thousands of sociologists around the world, and new groups and collectives of sociologists in solidarity with Palestine have emerged.

This invited panel will feature a conversation about Palestine among sociologists, including former ISA presidents, working on different topics and in various parts of the world. It provides an opportunity to reflect on how the struggle of Palestinian people for sovereignty and self-determination connects with various subjects and struggles worldwide. In addition, it will foster a debate about our role as sociologists and members of sociological associations and communities in these times of intensification of global crises.

This is the first of a number of sessions being collaboratively proposed on Palestine by ISA members from RC44 (Labour Movements), RC47 (Social Classes and Social Movements), and RC48 (Social Movements, Collective Actions, and Social Change).