FIRE - (Working Group on Feminism, Intersectionality and GEnder)

The Working Group on Feminism, Intersectionality and Gender unites scholars, students and activists with a shared interest in exploring feminist theories and practices. Participants adopt an intersectional viewpoint to investigate feminist movements and the connections between gender and politics, thus bridging gender studies, social movement studies and political science. As an interdisciplinary group, FIRE integrates various academic disciplines and methodological approaches rooted in social movement studies, gender studies, and feminist studies, all through the critical lens of intersectionality.

Our working group serves as a space for scientific debate and intellectual exchange. Members engage in discussions and collaborative research aimed at understanding and addressing the complexities of gender and feminism in contemporary societies, and the role of gender in contemporary political systems. We delve into the theoretical frameworks and practical applications of feminist thought, exploring how gender intersects with other axes of identity and oppression such as race, class, sexuality, ability, and more.

A key area of focus for our group is the relationship between feminist movements and democracy. We examine how feminist activism contributes to democratic processes, advocating for change within political systems. By analyzing the role of feminist movements in shaping democratic ideals and practices, we aim to highlight the importance of gender equity in achieving actual democracy.

In addition to fostering academic dialogue, we are committed to promote change, within and outside academia. While our goal is to increase current scientific knowledge of the social and political dynamics that lay behind gender imbalances and gender-based injustices, we believe that such knowledge is the necessary point of departure to design positive policies and actions to contrast gender imbalances both within the academic sphere and in broader social contexts. Our initiatives include organizing events, conferences, workshops, and campaigns designed to raise awareness, inspire advocacy, and support various communities.

Themes of Interest:

• Feminist Theory: Analyzing foundational and contemporary feminist theories that inform our understanding of gender and power dynamics
• Feminist Practices, Forms of Action, and Organizing: Examining diverse feminist practices and the ways in which feminist groups organize and mobilize for social change
• Contemporary Feminist Movements: Investigating the strategies, achievements, challenges and opportunities of feminist movements across the globe
• Gender and Politics: Exploring the role of gender in social movements, political parties, public policies, and how gender issues are addressed within different political contexts and endeavours
• Feminism and Democracy: exploring how feminist movements relate to, challenge and transform public policy, democratic principles and social justice
• Post-Colonial and Intersectional Perspectives and Methods: Adopting post-colonial and intersectional approaches to better understand the interconnectedness of social identities and the impact of systemic oppression

By intertwining these themes, the Working Group on Feminism, Intersectionality and Gender aims to contribute to the advancement of feminist thought and gender equality. We invite all those interested in these critical issues to join us in our efforts to foster an empowering academic community.