Tensions and Alliances: The Intersectional Politics of Mobilization

The Social Movements and Civil Society section invites submissions under the theme: “Tensions and Alliances: The Intersectional Politics of Mobilization.” This section invites papers that, on one hand, delve deep into the politics that constrain or enable the emergence and survival of alliances between social movements, and on the other hand, address the tensions and conflicts that can arise between and within movements, sometimes resulting in fractions. Highly politicized during the recent years, gender and sexuality became far rights` mobilization tool and a central theme of culture wars globally. Hence, we wish to explore the concept of intersectional solidarity within and between social movements and the potential of coalitions to oppose the threats and attacks to gender and sexuality rights and to counter the reversal and dismantling of emancipatory policies and institutions. We encourage scholars, researchers, and practitioners to contribute their insights into how social movements can foster solidarity and cooperation among diverse groups and peoples facing multiple forms of oppression and marginalization. What are the tensions and challenges to intersectional solidarity and the build-up of alliances? Papers discussing the role of counter-mobilization are also encouraged. We welcome papers that examine how do social movements embrace an intersectional approach, how do they recognize the interconnectedness of various social identities such as race, gender, class, sexuality, and ability in their praxis and what are the limits and challenges of doing intersectionality, of translating it into practice? Understanding how intersectional solidarity strengthens movements and communities is crucial in creating inclusive and effective strategies for social change. Consequently, we are interested in contributions that analyze the impact of intersectional solidarity on policy and institutional changes, societal attitudes, and public awareness and discourse. We invite scholars to explore how movements that embrace intersectionality can drive more comprehensive and equitable reforms, addressing the complex and interconnected challenges faced by diverse communities. In this section, our interest goes beyond the so-called progressive movements and we welcome contributions interested in conservative mobilizations around gender and sexuality issues or ecology, some of them in the name of feminism. We are open to papers addressing conservative women’s movements. We are equally interested in “strange” alliances between conservative branches of progressive movements and conservative movements and the role of ideological congruence. What and how do conflicts affect social movements, such as intergenerational differences or the differences between radical and moderate fractions? We are particularly interested in research shedding light on how social movements transcend national borders. What is the impact of transnational diffusion of norms and practices? What is the role played by transnational coalitions? How do they contribute to widening or narrowing down access to rights?