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

The beginning of the 21st century has presented challenges for humanity. Despite the progress in transportation and, in particular, in the media, scientific thinking has been challenged by flat-earthers, “experts” who question the effectiveness of vaccines and climate change deniers. It is therefore urgent to take a stand against these attacks on reason, as well as against the resurgence of authoritarian and far-right regimes and governments that are causing racism, xenophobia, sexism, Islamophobia and anti-Semitism to flare up, in addition to religious prejudice and gender discrimination. Thus, it is imperative for legal sociologists to think about the role of law and rights in contemporary society. And, with regard to Human Rights, it is important to consider their various dimensions. Thus, the objective of the session is to reflect on the role of Human Rights in contemporary times, including the rights to freedom - including freedom of speech, of artistic expression, of research -, social rights, peoples - or transindividual - rights, and even the rights of animals and nature.

(Session organized by RCSL Working Group Human Rights)