Weaving Change: The Power of Women’s Movements in Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Policy Brief

This global report brings together national case studies from Australia, India, South Africa, and Nicaragua to explore the transformative role of feminist movements in addressing violence against women and girls (VAWG). Using feminist and Indigenist research methods, the WEAVE Collective documented histories, strategies, and acts of resistance through interviews, focus groups, archives, and participatory approaches that centre lived experience as knowledge.
The report identifies common themes across different political contexts, including the impacts of patriarchy and capitalism, state repression and shrinking democratic spaces, systemic racism, and the legacies of colonisation. It highlights both the immense contributions of feminist movements—through campaigns, court cases, collaborations, and services—and the dilemmas and challenges they face in the current climate.
Emerging at a critical moment of backlash and criminalisation of activism, the report underscores the resilience and influence of feminist organising. By countering the erasure of women’s stories, particularly those at the intersections of multiple oppressions, it contributes vital evidence and reflection to the ongoing discourse on the future of women’s movements and their role in ending violence.
The land we live and work on always was, and always will be, Aboriginal land. We pay our respects to the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and acknowledge the ongoing leadership role of Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander communities in preventing violence against women. We also acknowledge Traditional Custodians of the lands where EQI works around the world.
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