Experiences of and resistances to 'anti-gender' politics in Catalonia and the Basque Country

Description

Abstract

The rise of 'anti-gender' movements, discourses, and policies represents a significant challenge to gender equality and the possibility of living in freedom, particularly for marginalized groups. This phenomenon, increasingly present in Europe, is well-documented. This study, conducted in Catalonia and the Basque Country, focuses on the impact of this phenomenon. Specifically, it analyses the effects of and resistances to 'anti-gender' policies and discourses through the experiences of 33 participants, gathered through twelve interviews and four focus groups during 2024. The results show that 'anti-gender' attacks are intentional and politically motivated, aiming to halt or reverse feminist and LGBTI policies. These attacks primarily target public figures associated with feminism and the LGBTI movement but also have profound social repercussions, impacting marginalized groups and intersecting with other forms of discrimination. These aggressions occur both on social media and in other spaces, fostering a climate of fear, demobilization, and self-censorship, causing significant emotional harm that forces many activists to abandon collective spaces or create protective bubbles. Resistance strategies include boycotts, digital protection, documenting attacks, and engaging in dialogue with proponents of 'anti-gender' positions. Despite this adverse climate, some activists remain steadfast, using their visibility as a tool to resist and continue the fight.