Russian Feminism after 2022: Anti-War Resistance and Internal Development of the Movement

Session Submission Type: Panel

Brief Description

Russian Feminism, very developed and split into many subgroups before 2022, in the recent years faced not only the war, but large-scale political repressions in Russia. As Feminist Antiwar Resistance became one of the most vocal anti-war communities, they've been under attack. The constant threat of transnational repression adds another layer of fear, jeopardizing their safety even in exile. The potential for harsh penalties upon any return trip to Russia, given the criminalization of both feminism (particularly when associated with LGBTQ+ rights) and anti-war activism, further complicates their situation.

For the feminists in exile a profound sense of helplessness in common. Furthermore, the lack of widespread public opposition within Russia, with many citizens either supporting the war or remaining silent, creates a sense of isolation and ineffectiveness. This burden is amplified as many exiles struggle to find supportive networks within their new host countries, hindering their ability to continue activism.

Beyond these external challenges, the activists grapple with a complex web of internal conflicts. Many experience survivor's guilt, feeling they have abandoned their comrades who remain in Russia with diminishing opportunities for resistance. Additionally, some activists feel a lingering sense of insecurity in their new homes, particularly in countries with close ties to Russia.

Given all those grievances, feminists often remain involved in social and political life both in their receiving societies and in Russia remotely, they try to connect and support the existing ties, educate themselves and each other and reflect on what has happened to the community.

Sub Unit

• Gender/LGBTQ Studies

Chair

• Regina Smyth, Indiana U Bloomington

Papers

• Guilt, Rage, and Solidarity: How Feminist Anti-War Activism Shapes Political Consciousness - Karolina Nugumanova, Scuola Normale Superiore (Italy)

• Recalling the Past of the Russian Feminism: How Activists in Exile Reflect on Their Experience in Russia - Veronica Kostenko, Tel Aviv U (Israel); Sergei Tikhonov, George Washington U

Discussant

• Julie D. Hemment, U of Massachusetts Amherst