Symbolic censorship, polarization, and the rise of anti-feminist discourse on social media<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nThe censorship of terms associated with feminism is not an isolated event: it reflects a deliberate attempt to erase language related to human rights, limiting people\u2019s ability to name, discuss, and advocate for more inclusive and equitable futures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This symbolic censorship is accompanied by direct attacks on institutions that promote gender equality. The closure of women\u2019s ministries (as Milei did in Argentina in 2024), budget cuts, bans on inclusive language, proposals to eliminate the legal recognition of femicide, and the removal of gender-focused educational programs are all measures aimed at reducing the visibility and impact of progressive policies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Meanwhile, data on growing polarization in conversations about equality in Ibero-America, along with a notable rise in misogynistic discourse, indicate that public discussion is increasingly shaped by narratives opposed to feminism. In countries like Ecuador, El Salvador, and Mexico, anti-feminist discourse has gained traction, filling a vacuum left by feminism\u2019s diminishing relevance in public debate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This highlights the power of digital platforms to amplify divisive and misogynistic messages, creating an environment of disinformation and distorted reality that intimidates many activists\u2014who, for self-preservation, withdraw from these spaces. The \u201cmanosphere,\u201d a collection of misogynistic digital subcultures, is playing an increasingly significant role in spreading anti-feminist ideas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A recent report by the Friedrich Ebert Foundation in Chile makes clear that anti-feminism has become a powerful political tool. According to the report, it is \u201ca hinge between neoliberalism and authoritarianism,\u201d enabling conservative sectors to consolidate their political base, win elections, and legitimize exclusionary social models.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The data is revealing: in El Salvador, 30.7% of the population holds anti-feminist attitudes; in Brazil, 29.4%; in Argentina, 29.3%. In Mexico, the anti-feminist narrative takes on a veneer of respect and tradition, with the active participation of ultra-conservative organizations such as the National Front for the Family and Christian Lawyers. These groups, largely funded from the U.S. and Europe, run campaigns against sex education, LGBTQ+ rights, and access to abortion, using the concept of \u201cfreedom\u201d to justify censorship. They hide behind the defense of \u201cthe family\u201d to cover up gender violence and child sexual abuse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This movement is deeply connected to religious groups\u2014mainly Christian\u2014far-right parties, and digital platforms that spread unregulated disinformation. Their messages are simple: fear, hate, and order\u2014but they have a devastating impact on the criminalization of women, political persecution, and not a few institutional setbacks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It is important to challenge these narratives<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nSeveral strategies can be proposed here. It is crucial to clearly identify the actors behind this regression: governments that claim to be \u201cliberal\u201d but suppress our freedom of expression; legislators who view women\u2019s rights as a threat; media outlets that equate feminism with extremism; churches and institutions that cover up rapists and promote sexist societies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It is also important to defend the notion that feminism, as a movement for equal rights, remains entirely relevant in many parts of the world, including Latin America. While significant advances have been made\u2014such as voting rights and access to education and employment\u2014workplace discrimination, the gender pay gap, and inadequate protection of sexual and reproductive rights still persist. The numbers on femicides, violence, and sexual harassment worldwide are alarming. Recent reports show that women continue to face significant obstacles in accessing power and decision-making positions. The narrative that feminism is no longer necessary ignores these ongoing realities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Furthermore, feminism is not exclusive to certain cultures or regions. Across all continents, women are fighting for their rights, so the movement also has global strength. Minimizing it as a \u201cWestern phenomenon\u201d or \u201cunnecessary\u201d disregards the reality of millions of women around the world who are still struggling against oppression.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Therefore, rather than being swayed by these narratives that seek to distort feminism, it is essential to continue questioning, reflecting, and maintaining the fight for equality. In the face of patriarchal offensives, feminism in Latin America is standing strong. In Chile, Mexico, Colombia, Argentina, and many other countries, thousands continue to march under a clear slogan: \u201cNot one step back,\u201d convinced they are far from being a minority or fringe movement. According to the aforementioned Friedrich Ebert Foundation study, 50% of respondents identify as pro-feminist\u2014a very encouraging figure worth sharing widely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Avoiding the pessimism that comes from narratives claiming change is impossible is the task at hand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
*Machine translation proofread by Jana\u00edna da Silva.<\/sub><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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