Autocratization and gender politics

This chapter examines the relationship between autocratization and gender equality. Building on earlier research on gender and autocracies, the authors explore how this relationship evolves in the context of the current autocratic surge, how we can we make sense of the duality and paradox of autocrats attacking gender equality and supporting women’s rights. Three interrelated aspects of the relationship between gender and different processes of autocratization are discussed. First, the authors discuss how and why autocracies contribute to women’s protection and rights. Second, they assess how and why autocracies and autocratization concur with curtailing women’s rights and gender equality, despite the appearance of progress in some aspects of gender equality. Finally, the chapter delves deeper into the role of women, women’s and gender equality organizations in resisting and overthrowing authoritarian regimes.