Feminist Politics in Neoconservative Russia: An Ethnography of Resistance and Resources

This book explores grassroots feminist activism in Russia in the politically turbulent 2010s, highlighting how activists navigated challenges from authoritarian and conservative trends. It offers insights into resistance and creative tactics in a repressed space for independent political action, challenging Western theories and concepts of feminism and social movements.

Format: Hardback
Length: 204 pages
Publication date: 05 July 2022
Publisher: Bristol University Press

In the politically turbulent 2010s, grassroots feminist activism in Russia emerged as a powerful force, navigating the challenges posed by authoritarian and conservative trends. Drawing on rich ethnographic data, the author delves into the experiences of a new generation of activists who have chosen feminism as their central political beacon. Through their narratives, the author illustrates how these activists have navigated the complexities of a society grappling with rapid social change and political instability.

The book offers a nuanced and compelling analysis of the challenges faced by grassroots feminist activists in Russia. It challenges Western theories and concepts of feminism and social movements, offering valuable insights into how resistance can mobilize and invent creative tactics to cope with an increasingly repressed space for independent political action.

One of the key themes explored in the book is the role of social media in amplifying feminist voices and organizing collective action. The author highlights how social media platforms have provided a space for activists to connect, share information, and mobilize support for their causes. However, they also note that the digital landscape can be fraught with challenges, including surveillance, censorship, and online harassment.

Another important aspect of the book is the author's examination of the intersectionality of feminist activism with other social and political movements. The author argues that grassroots feminist activism in Russia is deeply intertwined with issues such as LGBTQ+ rights, labor rights, and environmentalism, highlighting the need for a holistic approach to social change.

The book also sheds light on the challenges faced by feminist activists in Russia, including legal repression, police violence, and social stigma. The author documents the cases of several activists who have faced arrest, harassment, and even physical violence for their work in feminist activism. These experiences highlight the urgent need for greater protections and support for feminist activists in Russia.

Despite these challenges, the book offers a hopeful vision for the future of grassroots feminist activism in Russia. The author highlights the resilience and creativity of these activists, who have continued to work tirelessly to promote gender equality and social justice in their country. The book also provides valuable insights into the strategies and tactics that have been successful in mobilizing and sustaining feminist activism in challenging contexts.

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in grassroots feminist activism, social movements, and the politics of resistance in Russia. It offers a nuanced and compelling analysis of the challenges faced by these activists and provides valuable insights into the strategies and tactics that can be used to promote social change in an increasingly repressive environment.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529216967