COST Action (CA23149) aims to advance a comprehensive and interdisciplinary understanding of anti-gender politics as a growing threat to democracy, equality, and fundamental rights in Europe. By analysing how anti-gender actors, discourses, and policies challenge democratic institutions and social justice frameworks, this Action provides critical insights into the political, social, and cultural transformations reshaping contemporary Europe.

CA23149’s mission is to establish a collaborative, interdisciplinary network that critically examines the emergence and impact of anti-gender politics across Europe. It shall foster comparative, intersectional, and cross-sectoral analyses of anti-gender movements and their implications for democratic governance. We support knowledge exchange among scholars, activists, policymakers, and civil society to develop informed responses that uphold gender equality, pluralism, and democratic values. By fostering dialogue among researchers, policymakers, and civil society, the Action aims to:

• Analyse the political, social, and cultural dynamics driving anti-gender movements in CEE and NME regions.
• Compare national and regional responses to these movements, identifying patterns and divergences.
• Develop evidence-based recommendations to strengthen democratic institutions and promote gender equality.
• Empower civil society organizations and activists to effectively counteract anti-gender rhetoric and policies.

Through these objectives, CA23149 strives to contribute to a more inclusive, democratic, and gender-equal Europe.
CA23149’s work is structured around four interconnected Working Groups, each contributing unique expertise to the overarching goal:

• WG 1: Revealing the historical, social-political, and economic background conditions
• WG 2: Deciphering the triangle of state, civil society, and anti-gender actors
• WG 3: Rethinking activism and forms of oppositions with a focus on unexpected allies
• WG 4: Dissemination and outreach activities