Feminism and socialist strategy

Another World is Possible as Long as it is Feminist Too: Leftist Feminists as Dissidents in the Anti-Globalization Struggle

The present paper draws upon the example of Greek leftist feminism in order to further explore the issue of feminist dissension in contemporary anti-globalisation movements. The existence of an autonomous women’s movement against neo-liberal globalisation is deemed indispensable to those Greek feminists who had experienced gender biases within the anti-globalisation struggle and express their concerns regarding the persistence of patriarchal structures. Along with the local basis of their worries, the paper equally explores the ways in which their experience is universally significant since these feminists are closely connected to transnational networks such as the World March of Women. The latter works as a feminist response to globalisation, aspires to be global in its outreach and is loyal to the so called ‘politics of connection’ concluding coalitions with potentially helpful allies for the achievement of their anti-liberal and anti-patriarchal goals. It is on this ground that the Greek feminists, similarly to their international counterparts, encourage alternative social movements to fight against patriarchy within and insist that the envisioned 'another world' will not be radically transformed and alternative unless it is based on feminist premises.

Strategies for Socialist Feminists in the Age of Obama

This paper draws on my recently published book ''Feminism Seduced: How Global Elites Use Women's Labor and Ideas to Exploit the World'' (Paradigm Publishers 2009) to explore some theoretical and practical strategies for socialist feminists in the current global crisis.

Women, War and Modern Feminism

This paper seeks to explain this prominence, put it in historical context and assess its significance for both the anti war movement and the struggle for women's liberation. My argument will involve both a consideration of how changes in women's role in society has impacted on their role in the new movements but also the way in which changes in the nature of modern warfare have drawn women in to the struggle in new ways. The professionalisation of the military machines have meant that anti war protest in military communities has tended to be led by women, nevertheless are in general more confident to protest than they were in the years of the Vietnam war.

The explanation of women's involvement in anti war protest involves understanding complex interplay of class, gender, race and religion. It will also look at the relationship between women and war and modern feminism. In the context of the war on terror, and the supposed 'clash of civilisations' it will look at the political debates over the hijab and burka, and the need to develop a view of women's liberation which challenges imperialism and capital.