For sixty years, applied linguistics has stood at the crossroads of language and society, by meeting real-world needs. 60 Years of Applied Linguistics: Toward more engaged research offers a compelling reflection on the field’s evolution while calling for a renewed commitment to socially responsive, ethically grounded scholarship. Inspired by the momentum of the 2023 AILA World Congress in France, this collective volume brings together leading international applied linguists to examine how applied linguistics has transformed in response to shifting political landscapes, technological change, and global challenges. From different perspectives, the contributors explore how research has both shaped—and been shaped by—the world we live in. Looking ahead, the book advocates for research that reaches beyond academic borders, engaging with communities, policymakers, and practitioners to confront contemporary issues. This book is an essential reference for scholars, students, and practitioners. It celebrates a rich intellectual legacy while charting bold new directions.