The UNESCO Chairs/UNITWIN networks are modalities of "transgression" to deal efficiently with existing stumbling blocks and to impulse academic institutions to fully play their societal role. Host institutions of UNESCO Chairs/UNITWIN networks are to help the democratic organization of society and recognition vs respect for its diversity. Social scientists assume a dual role of observers/analysts and participants/citizens. The academic institution is to provide the tangible basis for the scientists to responsibly enact this dual part.