Feminism Is Losing Ground, But Grassroots Action Offers Hope

Natasha Walter's new audiobook paints a grim picture of women's rights in the 21st century. Yet she finds energy and optimism in local movements fighting inequality and climate change. In "Feminism for a World on Fire," Walter, an activist and academic, argues that progress toward equality has stalled or reversed. "Throughout the world confidence in progress has shattered," she writes. Women everywhere "keep coming up against misogynistic violence that never disappears." Social media, once a tool for women to organize, now spreads hatred and misogyny. Climate disasters hit women harder than men because women are more likely to care for children and elderly relatives. Male violence against women is rising, and social divisions—especially over migration—are deepening. Despite this bleak outlook, Walter finds hope in grassroots initiatives. She highlights collective action as a way forward in a world facing inequality and environmental crisis.