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

What is largely described as a refugee crisis is actually a political crisis. From inequality, war and climate change, our political leaders have largely failed in their attempts to alleviate human suffering worldwide. The IOM reports that at no other time in history have there been as many displaced people, numbering over 115 million people (UNHCR, 2024). In this session, we invite papers that address common issues related to refugees, asylum seekers and others fleeing political instability, climate change, disasters and war. Papers in this session should foster a deeper understanding of the complexities and challenges faced by refugees in the twenty-first century. We encourage papers discussing policy reform, humanitarian aid and the role of sociological research in understanding and protecting the rights of refugees and displaced persons. We also seek to highlight the resilience and strength of refugees, their contributions to host societies and the importance of inclusive policies that respect human dignity and social justice. By bringing together diverse perspectives, we hope to inspire meaningful dialogue and action toward more equitable and compassionate global response to displacement.