Defending democracy, empowering women

In recent years, the political landscape across Europe has been increasingly shaped by the rise of populist movements. A troubling feature of this trend has been the systematic marginalisation of women in political and public life. Despite progress in gender equality, women continue to face barriers to political representation, decision-making, and visibility in public discourse. The growing tendency to invisibilise women in politics threatens democratic participation and the progress made toward gender equality. 

Recognising the urgent need to address these challenges, FEPS, in collaboration with the Táncsics Foundation, will launch a dedicated initiative aimed at examining and addressing the barriers to women’s participation in political life. This project will create spaces for discussion on EU level, advocacy, and policy recommendations for European stakehodlers to strengthen gender-inclusive democracy in the European Union.

Like many countries in Europe and beyond, Hungary has witnessed similar challenges, where conservative and populist narratives often downplay the role of women in governance and leadership. The exclusion of women from political debates and policy discussions not only weakens democratic processes but also perpetuates gender inequalities.

In this context, on 7 March FEPS in collaboration with the Táncsics Foundation organised a public conference in Budapest to provide platforms for women to speak up, engage in political discussions, and contribute meaningfully to shaping European public policy. 

For more information regarding the project and this event, please do not hesitate to contact Laeticia Thissen, Senior Policy Analyst on Gender Equality, FEPS (laeticia.thissen@feps-europe.eu) or Julia Wild, Project Officer, FEPS (julia.wild@feps-europe.eu).