CSW Parallel Event: Strategic Responses to Backlash against Gender Justice and Women’s Access to Justice

March 16, 11:30 AM -12:45 PM | United Nations Headquarters, New York

Hosted by UNRISD and FES, this powerful panel brought together experts, policymakers, and advocates to share insights and strategies to counter anti-gender and anti-rights movements. Moderated by Merle Rutz (FES New York), the discussion spotlighted the growing global backlash against gender justice and its impact on democracy and access to justice for women and girls

Speakers included:
 

Haley McEwen (Researcher, University of Gothenburg)

María Noel Estrada (UNRISD)

Lata Narayanaswamy (School of Politics and International Studies at the University of Leeds)

Laura Turquet (UN Women)

Joy Chia (Prospera)

Laxman Belbase (MenEngage Alliance)

The discussion highlighted the urgent need for collective action - across governments, civil society, and multilateral spaces - to defend gender equality, the rule of law, and democratic values.

Now more than ever, we must stand together to protect rights, strengthen justice systems, and push back against regression.

A special thank you to our co-sponsors - the governments of Finland, Germany, and the United Kingdom, as well as UNAIDS - for their support.