Special Issue on: "Empowering Underrepresented Communities: Integrating Sustainable Development Goals Through Social Inclusion”

2024-12-10

Introduction

The United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aim to create a better and more sustainable future for everyone. However, critics argue that these goals often fail to address the unique challenges faced by underrepresented and minority communities. For example, Jason Hickel (2019) points out that the SDGs might unintentionally keep inequalities in place by not fully addressing the root causes of poverty and exclusion. Similarly, Jomo Kwame Sundaram (2018) notes that without serious efforts to break down systemic barriers, sustainable development efforts can leave behind those who need them the most.

Social inclusion is a critical dimension where these shortcomings are particularly evident. Many marginalized groups are excluded from opportunities and decision-making, which traps them in cycles of poverty and inequality. Kimberlé Crenshaw’s (1989) concept of intersectionality shows how overlapping identities, such as race, gender, and class, make these challenges even harder. To create meaningful change, the SDGs must include and uplift these groups.

This special issue focuses on how social inclusion can help empower underrepresented communities and make progress toward the SDGs. By focusing on research from areas like sociology, subaltern studies, literature, gender studies, etc., the objective is to find solutions that are both practical and fair. By connecting ideas to real-world action, this issue aims to make a difference in the lives of marginalized people through thoughtful suggestions for policy making.

By amplifying the voices of underrepresented communities and tackling these issues head-on, this special issue contributes to a more inclusive approach to the SDGs. Recognizing that the SDGs will remain aspirational without the full participation and empowerment of underrepresented communities, this issue emphasizes practical solutions and actionable insights. The goal is to dismantle systemic barriers and ensure that the benefits of sustainable development are equitably shared, leaving no one behind.

Aim and Scope

This special issue invites contributions that align with the journal's mission to advance the progress of minority and underrepresented communities globally. We encourage submissions that:

  • Link SDGs with Minority Progress: Analyze how specific SDGs intersect with the challenges and opportunities faced by underrepresented groups.
  • Educational Initiatives: Explore innovative educational programs that promote equity, reduce disparities, and empower minority populations.
  • Gender Studies and Equality: Examine the role of gender equality (SDG 5) in uplifting communities, focusing on women's rights within minority groups.
  • Subaltern Voices and Literature: Utilize literary works and narratives to highlight the lived experiences of marginalized individuals, offering insights into their contributions toward achieving SDGs.
  • Sociological Perspectives: Investigate societal structures that impede or facilitate the inclusion of minority communities in sustainable development efforts.
  • Practical Solutions and Case Studies: Present real-world examples of successful interventions, policies, or programs that have made tangible impacts on underrepresented populations.

Relevance to Sustainable Development Goals

By directly addressing SDGs such as Quality Education (SDG 4), Gender Equality (SDG 5), Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10), and Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions (SDG 16), this special issue seeks to contribute to global efforts in creating inclusive societies. The focus on practical implications ensures that the research transcends theoretical boundaries and offers actionable insights.

Topics of Interest

We invite papers on (but not limited to) the following topics:

  1. Educational Empowerment: Strategies for enhancing access to quality education for underrepresented communities, including curriculum development that reflects diverse histories and cultures.
  2. Gender Equality in Minority Groups: Analyses of gender dynamics within minority communities and their impact on achieving SDG targets.
  3. Subaltern Narratives and Resistance: Exploration of literature and personal narratives that shed light on the struggles and resilience of marginalized groups.
  4. Social Inclusion Policies: Evaluation of governmental and non-governmental initiatives aimed at reducing inequalities and promoting social inclusion.
  5. Intersectionality and Identity: Studies on how overlapping identities (race, gender, class, sexuality) affect individuals' ability to engage with and benefit from sustainable development initiatives.
  6. Community-Led Development: Case studies highlighting the role of community organizations in driving progress toward SDGs at the grassroots level.
  7. Technology and Innovation: Examination of how technological advancements can be leveraged to empower underrepresented communities.
  8. Cultural Preservation: Discussions on balancing modernization with the preservation of cultural heritage within minority groups.

Uniqueness and Practical Implications

This proposal is distinct from previous special issues by its explicit integration of the SDGs with the lived experiences of underrepresented communities. By emphasizing practical implications, we aim to move beyond theoretical exploration to offer solutions that can be implemented by policymakers, educators, and community leaders. This approach ensures that the research contributes directly to the advancement of minority progress in tangible ways.

Contribution to the Field

The special issue will:

  • Bridge Theory and Practice: Provide actionable insights that can inform policy and practice, leading to measurable improvements in minority communities.
  • Promote Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Bring together scholars from literature, education, gender studies, sociology, and subaltern studies to offer multifaceted perspectives.
  • Influence Global Discourse: Add to international conversations on sustainable development by highlighting the critical role of underrepresented communities.

Tentative Timeline

  • Submission of Abstract: Email the guest editors at tanuguptass@gmail.com. Please include the title, contact information, and institutional affiliation: February 25, 2025
  • Acceptance/Rejection of Abstract:  March 31, 2025
  • Full Paper: June 15, 2025(In the journal and detailed instructions will be provided)
  • Decision Date: September 30, 2025
  • Final Version: December 2025

Guest Editors

Conclusion

This special issue aims to make a meaningful contribution to both academia and society by highlighting the intersection of underrepresented communities with the Sustainable Development Goals. By incorporating authentic critiques and logical arguments from esteemed scholars, we strengthen the foundation of our proposal and underscore the necessity of practical, inclusive approaches to sustainable development. We believe it will not only enrich scholarly discourse but also inspire practical actions that advance equity and inclusion worldwide.

 References

  • Crenshaw, K. (1989). Demarginalizing the Intersection of Race and Sex: A Black Feminist Critique of Antidiscrimination Doctrine, Feminist Theory and Antiracist Politics. University of Chicago Legal Forum.
  • Hickel, J. (2019). The contradiction of the Sustainable Development Goals: Growth versus ecology on a finite planet. Sustainable Development, 27(5), 873-884.
  • Sundaram, J. K. (2018). The Sustainable Development Goals and the systems approach to sustainability. International Journal of Sustainable Development & World Ecology, 25(3), 277-283.

Please direct inquiries to the lead guest editor, Dr. Tanu Gupta, at tanuguptass@gmail.com.