Standards as enablers in a world in transition[Les normes en tant qu’objets facilitateurs dans un monde en transition]

The research draws on Giddens' theoretical framework, according to which structure and practice are mutually constructed. Standards are thus viewed both as points of reference – and therefore as structure – and as enablers of practices when they support change. The methodology involves cataloguing AFNOR standards by theme and comparing them with a timeline of socio-economic and environmental events. Initial findings show little direct correlation over the period 1986–2000, except for the ISO 14001 standard, which is linked to the rise of sustainable development. From the 2000s onwards, the links between crises, societal shocks, and the emergence of standards on risk, CSR, climate, and water become more apparent. Since 2022, the pace of standard-setting has accelerated in the areas of AI, biodiversity, the circular economy and renewable energy. In conclusion, AFNOR appears to have long kept pace with socio-economic transformations, but is becoming increasingly responsive as the urgent challenges of the 21st century multiply.