Atthe moment, it is impossible to ignore the manifestations of an ultra-nationalist and reactionary patriarchy that is very much in the spotlight all over the world. A motley crew of states, far-right organizations, fundamentalist religious movements, and wealthyconservatives with deep pockets continue to push an anti-gender and anti-democratic agenda. These actors infiltrate decision-making and dialogue spaces, even inviting themselves to gatherings for gender equality, as evidenced by the presence of the former Hungarian president, an emblematic figure of anti-rights movements, at the latest edition of Women Deliver in Kigali.
In 2023-2024, Equipop devoted much of its efforts to deciphering this threat and calling for action by publishing studies, engaging the media, and facilitating public discussions. Because there is no ready-made remedy to counter this offensive, but there is a conviction: the path forward is political, and every person and every organization has a role to play. Neutrality is not an option. More than ever, we need to think about how to organize our societies and build a shared world. In terms of our collective imagination, this means countering the temptation to retreat into deadly identity politics, fighting against ultra-commercialization, and highlighting our interdependencies. This does not mean abandoning the idea of a universal as a desirable horizon, but keeping in mind that it cannot be decreed and is always in the process of formation in a dialogue that must be nourished by the multiplicity of struggles around the world. In terms of mobilization, beyond incantatory convergence, we must work to build broad transnational alliances around common goals that combine various modes of action (advocacy, social media campaigns, legal action, occupation of public space, etc.). Respect for our differences, attention to the power relations that inevitably influence the way we show solidarity, and awareness of the links between sexist, racist, and economic inequalities must guide us.
In implementing this roadmap, feminist movements and associations play a crucial role, and they do so every day. They provide valuable critical insights into understanding the complexity of contemporary issues and come up with many very concrete responses. That is why Equipop isparticularly proud to have provided financial support to 44 frontline associations in ten countries, particularly in West Africa, where crises are multiplying. With this support, these activists secure their premises, take care of their volunteers, launch their own media outlets, raise awareness among young people about gender-based violence, lobby their decision-makers for more ambitious policies in favor of sexual and reproductive rights and health, and work with researchers to produce knowledge. We are also proud to have facilitated meetings and partnerships at the regional and international levels. Together, we have championed a progressive agenda in several political arenas, including opening doors for activists who have little access to these places of power. Finally, working closely with the realities on the ground, we have experimented with possible solutions to social problems with citizen movements, social and health professionals, associations, and researchers.
All this work can only be carried out through multiple collaborations based on trust and the desire to work together to build a fair and sustainable world. Thank you for being part of this community of action!
Aurélie Gal-Régniez Executive Director
