Project Description
This research project aims to address the growing threats and harassment faced by women’s rights, feminist, and LGBTQI+ activists and organizations in Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Tunisia, and Syria. Amidst a closing civic space, the project will investigate the social, cultural, economic, and political drivers behind these backlash movements and identify effective strategies for resistance. Through localized research and cross-movement alliance-building, the project seeks to safeguard the rights of marginalized communities and promote greater equality and inclusion in the region.
The research will involve a comprehensive methodology, including literature reviews, document analysis, and primary data collection through qualitative interviews and focus group discussions with activists and relevant stakeholders. By developing case studies and a comparative report, the project will provide in-depth insights into the unique challenges and resistance strategies within each target country. Additionally, policy briefs and thematic reports will offer actionable recommendations for policymakers and advocacy groups, aiming to strengthen the resilience of women’s rights, feminist, and LGBTQI+ movements against escalating backlash and promote positive change across the MENA/SWANA region.
Duration
2024-2027
Donor
International Development Research Centre (IDRC)
Project Activities
Upholding Rights at a Time of Global Backlash: Strategies in SWANA – The Case of Tunisia
This report examines the evolution of anti-rights backlash in Tunisia since the 2011 revolution, focusing on the transition from democratic opening to increasing authoritarian consolidation. Drawing on Social Movement Theory, Critical Race Theory, desk research,…
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Upholding Rights at a Time of Global Backlash: Strategies in SWANA – The Case of Syria
This report examines the dynamics of anti-gender backlash against women in Syria between 2011 and 2026, exploring how conflict, authoritarianism, and political transition have shaped women’s rights, participation, and feminist activism. Drawing on an intersectional,…
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Upholding Rights at a Time of Global Backlash: Strategies in SWANA – The Case of Lebanon
This report examines the intensification of anti-rights backlash against feminist, LGBTQI+, and gender non-conforming communities in Lebanon amid intersecting political, economic, and social crises. Drawing on interviews, focus group discussions, discourse analysis, and existing literature,…
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Upholding Rights at a Time of Global Backlash: Strategies in SWANA – The Case of Jordan
This report examines the rise of anti-gender movements in Jordan and their implications for feminist and queer activism, civic space, and fundamental rights. Drawing on qualitative research and the experiences of activists, it explores the…
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