Gender Wars Are an Early Warning Sign for Authoritarianism

Gender wars highlight the rise of authoritarianism globally, as seen in Georgia's struggle for democracy against Russian influence. Women leaders across various nations are pivotal in resisting these trends, emphasizing their essential role in safeguarding freedoms and rights, per commentary from RAND Corporation.  

The issue:  

The erosion of women's rights is a significant indicator of authoritarianism, with women in several countries facing increasing repression. For instance, Georgian women are protesting against electoral fraud and violence, while misogyny globally has risen alongside authoritarian tendencies.

What they recommend:  

The commentary suggests that the U.S. national security community should integrate gender perspectives into its strategies and prioritize support for women's groups globally. These groups are crucial for detecting early signs of authoritarianism and enhancing democratic resilience.

Go deeper:  

Women's groups serve as important barometers for democracy, as demonstrated by Moldova's women resisting disinformation campaigns. By incorporating gender analysis into intelligence operations, the U.S. can better assess societal well-being and the health of democratic institutions. Furthermore, elevating women's roles in national security discussions can foster a deeper understanding of conflicts driven by authoritarian regimes.

This is a brief overview of a commentary from RAND Corporation. For complete insights, we recommend reading the full commentary.