Exploring a Global Research Agenda on Civic Engagement: Lessons From a Decade of Feminist Mobilization in the Arab Region

Abstract

The Arab uprisings of 2011 marked a pivotal moment in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), bringing to the forefront issues of political oppression, economic disparity, and social injustice. In the aftermath, the region faced a complex array of challenges, from sectarian tensions to authoritarian resurgence. Amidst this turmoil, feminist activists persisted in their advocacy for gender equality and women’s rights. This report examines the strategies employed by feminist civil society groups in Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, and Tunisia over the past decade. Through comparative case studies, it analyzes the evolution of mobilization efforts, coalition-building, and engagement with decision-makers. The three case studies include (1) challenges and strategies in nationality laws reform in Jordan and Lebanon, (2) feminist campaigns against gender-based violence (GBV) in Egypt and Lebanon, and (3) dynamics of LGBTQIA+ movements in Tunisia and Lebanon. By uncovering the factors influencing the success or failure of these efforts, the study aims to provide insights for future advocacy endeavors and offer practical recommendations to advance gender equality in the MENA region.