The Radical Right: Misogyny, Masculinities and Women’s Leadership

Abstract

Abstract This chapter explores the tensions and complexities of women’s activism in the radical right. While the radical right emerges as distinct from the traditional far right, and strictly delineated roles for men and women, it has not entirely transformed traditional far-right gender politics. Women can find space as effective and motivational leaders, supported by men and women alike, as long as they do not go too far in challenging dominant patriarchal narratives. Prominent women leaders who center women’s agency will however always face censure, abuse, and pushback from the wider movement, including other women. This internally directed misogyny is consistent with ultra-nationalist ideology and is aimed at controlling women, through narratives of “care,” to protect patriarchy. Class-based misogyny is also often directed by activist men at radical right women, limiting their possibilities for activism. The chapter also considers the role of anti-feminism in women’s participation in the radical right, given all the women interviewed regarded liberal feminists as traitors. In particular, the chapter explores the roles and leadership styles of Jayda Fransen, then Deputy Leader of Britain First, and Anne Marie Waters, then Leader of For Britain, and how they inspire the grassroots.