Resisting Backlash: Ways Forward for MenEngage Alliance
A report summarising the outcomes of a series of structured discussions with members of MenEngage Alliance. It explores how backlash against gender equality and women's rights is manifesting locally, regionally, and globally, and critically examines its impact on gender equality work with men and boys, as well as broader advocacy for gender justice. The report outlines concrete steps for collective action and strategies, including opportunities for partnerships and movement building to effectively counter this backlash.
Key areas explored within the report include:
- Concerns about the different forms of patriarchal backlash encountered in gender equality work and their impacts on feminist and LGBTQI+ movements.
- Existing responses to patriarchal backlash that MenEngage members are building upon, alongside aspirations for improving their work and the overall efforts of the MenEngage Alliance.
- The diverse needs (technical, organizational, financial, emotional) that must be met for the MenEngage Alliance to effectively counter patriarchal backlash.
Who will find this resource useful?
This report will be particularly useful for:
- Organizations and individuals working on gender equality, men and boys engagement, and gender justice.
- Advocates and activists involved in countering anti-gender movements and patriarchal backlash.
- Researchers and policymakers interested in understanding the dynamics of backlash against gender equality.
- Members and partners of the MenEngage Alliance seeking to strengthen collective strategies and actions.
- Anyone interested in the practical challenges and strategic responses to threats against feminist and LGBTQI+ movements.
About the authors
This report was coordinated by the Global Secretariat of MenEngage Alliance and authored by Alan Greig. It is based on consultations led by Alan Greig with:
- MenEngage Alliance Board members
- MenEngage Europe (MEE)
- MenEngage Latin America
- MenEngage South Asia (MEASA)
- MenEngage Africa
- North American MenEngage Network (NAMEN)
- Caribbean Male Action Network (CariMAN)
We deeply appreciate the MenEngage members who participated in the consultations and generously shared their invaluable insights and experiences, which form the core of this publication.