A recent UN Women report reveals a troubling trend of backlash against feminism amidst a decline in democratic values and harmful online content. Misogynistic ideas regarding gender roles have been seeping into mainstream discussions, undermining the progress made over the past three decades. Despite some commendable advancements in women’s rights, around a quarter of surveyed countries report a pushback against gender equality, highlighting a critical need for continued vigilance and advocacy.
The report’s findings emerge as multiple funding cuts threaten essential women’s services, leading to fears of heightened inequalities. Laura Turquet, deputy head at UN Women, emphasises the organised resistance against gender equality achievements, citing examples like the overturning of Roe v. Wade and withdrawals from the Istanbul Convention. These actions, coupled with changes in governmental support for women’s ministries, signal a dangerous trend of regression.
Discussing violence against women’s rights defenders, Costa Rican activist Lydia Alpizar describes alarming increases in harassment, defamation, and even killings of activists—particularly in Latin America. The backdrop of political repression in Nicaragua serves as a stark reminder of both the escalating risks faced by feminists and the necessity of their impactful work. Many find themselves targets merely for advocating for gender equality.
As the landscape shifts, Turquet links the decline in democracies and rising inequality to aggressive pushbacks against women’s rights. Frustrations over economic hardships can easily manifest as hostility towards progressive movements, creating vulnerable spaces for scapegoating. In this context, the online environment plays a crucial role in proliferating misogyny while also providing a venue for feminist organisation.
Both activists acknowledge that, despite the struggles faced, there are heartening signs of progress: increased female political representation and a growing awareness of violence against women have pushed gender issues into the public agenda. Alpizar reflects on the transformative changes in gender relations but cautions about ongoing threats, while Turquet notes that strides made since 1995 present a foundation to combat this backlash, urging action towards justice and equality for women and girls.
A UN Women report indicates a growing backlash against feminism, with 25% of countries surveyed noting resistance to gender equality amidst declining democracies and funding cuts. The report highlights increased violence towards women’s rights defenders and online misogyny while recognising significant progress in women’s rights. Advocates stress the necessity of continued action and awareness to combat these pressing challenges.
In summary, while the recent UN Women report highlights significant progress in women’s rights, it also sheds light on a troubling resurgence of misogynistic attitudes and violence against activists. Calls for vigilance and continued advocacy are essential to counterbalance the pushback against gender equality. As society grapples with these challenges, the collective fight for women’s rights remains vital, marking a pivotal moment for both progress and resilience.
Original Source: news.un.org
