Defending Democracy: Why feminist movements are essential to democratic resilience

As democratic backsliding accelerates around the world, debates about how to defend democracy still focus largely on elections and formal institutions. But democracy also depends on organised communities with the power to participate, hold institutions accountable, defend rights, and act collectively.

Our new brief, Defending Democracy: Why feminist movements are essential to democratic resilience, shows how feminist movements are not simply beneficiaries of democracy; they help create, protect, and sustain it.

Drawing on the strategies and experiences of Mama Cash’s grantee-partners across the world, the brief explores how feminist movements build democratic resilience through long-term organising, strong relationships, cross-movement coalitions, and solidarity across borders – often while navigating repression and shrinking civic space.

The brief provides insights for policy makers and funders seeking to invest in democratic resilience, stronger civic infrastructure, and more peaceful, inclusive, and accountable societies.  

Download the brief here.