Professions, Politics, and the State

Politics have long influenced professions’ relationships with the state, and structured state policies impacting professional workers. However, in recent years, the rise of authoritarianism, populism, and the continuance of neo-liberalism have altered dynamics in state-profession relations, and invoked policy reform. At the same time, reaction against authoritarianism, including calls for more equity, diversity and inclusion, is also being felt and is shaping policy and practice. The pandemic has influenced all of these trends. Papers in this session could explore a variety of topics related to professions, policy, state-profession relations, politics, and political movements. Policies analysed could include those implemented or considered by governments, or policies implemented by professional associations and regulators, or other oversight bodies. A focus on inter-relationships between and among professions, their associations and regulators, the state, and other stakeholders are also welcome, as are studies that explore issues from an inequality lens.