Complex Geopolitics and Relevance of Social Movements: A Sociological Perspective from the Global South

The Global South, rose to prominence through historical experiences of colonialism, inequality, forced migration, displacement and uneven development thus causing rapid geopolitical transformation resulting in climate change, resource conflicts and rise of identity-based politics.

In this context, social movements have emerged as important spaces of democratic participation and social transformation. Looked upon as effective tools for democratic transformation, identity politics, climate justice and youth participation, these socio-political movements reflect how resources shape the nature and extent of territorial and ideological disputes.

This session emphasises the continued relevance of collective action in addressing inequalities and promoting inclusive development in an era of global uncertainty. With an aim to understand and address the ongoing geopolitics and it’s deep impact on communities, this session provides a platform to emphasise the relevance of social movements to reflect socio-political realities that shape the discourse of development.

With a larger aim to demonstrate how grassroots mobilisations possess the potential to challenge the dominant power structures and demand social justice, this session invites scholars, researchers and activists to critically engage with the sociological dimensions of social movements in relation to complex geopolitics. The session also aims to explore how communities and marginalised groups in Asia, Africa, Latin America and other regions of the Global South respond to global and local power structures. It seeks interdisciplinary contributions examining peasant movements, labour struggles, feminist mobilisations, indigenous resistance, ecological justice campaigns, digital activism and movements for rights, recognition and dignity.