SAVE THE DATE | Defending equality in an age of democratic decline

Just in time for International Women’s Day 2026, the European Commission released its new EU Gender Equality Strategy 2026–2030, setting the course for EU gender policy over the next five years. While the previous strategy (2020–2025) brought progress in several areas, it struggled to effectively address the rise of anti-gender ideologies and integrate gender equality across broader EU policy frameworks. In recent years, the growth of far-right and anti-feminist movements across Europe has highlighted the urgent need for a more comprehensive and resilient approach to defending gender equality and democratic values.

In this context, the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung EU | Global Dialogue invites you to discuss the new EU Gender Equality Strategy and our newly published report “Defending Equality in an Age of Democratic Decline – Reframing Europe’s Gender Equality Strategy for 2026–2030” written by Rémy Bonny (Forbidden Colours). 

Together with MEP Alexandra Geese (Greens/EFA) and Rémy Bonny, we will examine whether the new strategy meets current expectations and what it means for the future of gender equality in the EU. Key questions include:

• Can the new strategy overcome the recent stagnation or even regression in gender equality across Europe?
• Does the growing gender backlash reflect a broader democratic decline?
• What role do digital platforms and disinformation play in shaping anti-gender narratives?

Registrations will open soon. Save the date!

For any questions, please contact Louise Mollenhauer.