In recent years, far-right groups have increasingly co-opted feminist rhetoric, claiming to 'protect women and girls' to bolster their support. However, this narrative is deeply hypocritical, as many of their members have histories of domestic abuse and their actions undermine genuine women's rights.
Far-Right March and Hypocrisy
Last weekend, Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, known as Tommy Robinson, led a far-right anti-immigration march in London. The event featured stunts like women removing niqabs on stage to chants of 'take it off,' revealing short dresses underneath. These women belong to Collectif Némésis, a French Islamophobic group that claims to protect women but targets Muslim women specifically.
Research shows that many far-right activists have been reported for domestic abuse. During the 2024 riots following the Southport murders, two in five arrestees had prior domestic abuse reports. This underscores the disconnect between their rhetoric and reality.
Femonationalism in the UK
Groups like the Women's Safety Initiative and the Pink Ladies use anti-immigration slogans under the guise of women's safety. However, their focus on white women and hostility toward migrants reveals their true racist agenda. Women's organizations have condemned this hijacking of violence against women discourse, stating it harms survivors and impedes real progress.
Despite the facade, far-right movements do not support women's rights. As one activist noted, 'The far right calls to save women while doing the opposite.' The fight against gender-based violence must remain inclusive and not be exploited for xenophobic purposes.
