🌈 The impact of 'anti-gender' politics and queer, feminist resilience in Poland
A new study from the RESIST Project has uncovered how queer and feminist communities in Poland are resisting hostile political forces. Despite rising populism and 'anti-gender' campaigns, these groups have built strong networks of care, friendship, and solidarity. The research also highlights how autocratic leaders exploit gender issues to weaken democracy and divide society.
The RESIST Project’s case study on Poland found that 'anti-gender' rhetoric serves as a cover for broader oppression. Participants identified it as a tool to justify patriarchy, misogyny, transphobia, homophobia, racism, and even antisemitism. The term also fuels anti-EU, anti-liberal, and anti-leftist sentiments, creating a climate of fear and division.
Within these communities, tensions have emerged over transphobic views, exclusion of sex workers, generational clashes, and inconsistent intersectional inclusion. Yet, despite these internal struggles, many have found strength in collective action. Love, care, and mutual support have become vital in navigating a sociopolitical landscape marked by hostility. The backlash has not gone unanswered. Instead of silencing LGBTIQ+ voices, 'anti-gender' mobilisations have sparked greater civic engagement, self-organisation, and media visibility. Public figures have increasingly shown allyship, while activists have developed coping strategies—building supportive relationships, sharing resources, and pushing back against institutional barriers. However, the cost of resistance remains high. Many face online harassment, hate speech, institutional discrimination, and even physical threats. Academic freedoms have been restricted, and activist burnout is a growing concern. Despite these challenges, the study reveals a determined effort to reclaim joy and create liveable futures. The RESIST Project is backed by queer-feminist scholars, civil-society groups, and legal experts specialising in trans and LGBTQ+ rights. Funding comes from public research grants and foundations, though specific institutions were not disclosed.
The findings show that while 'anti-gender' politics aim to erode equality, they have also strengthened solidarity among marginalised groups. Queer and feminist communities in Poland continue to resist through resilience, mutual aid, and a shared commitment to human-centred values. Their efforts highlight both the threats posed by populist movements and the enduring power of collective action.
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