NOT OVER: A Global Cry for Women’s Rights Continues
The fight for women’s rights is far from over, as thousands of demonstrators across the globe took to the streets to voice their concerns and demands for equality and justice. In cities like Paris and Berlin, protesters made their presence known, highlighting the ongoing struggles women face in the face of patriarchal systems and regressive policies. Among the key targets of their frustration was U.S. President Donald Trump, whose administration has been criticized for its stance on women’s issues.
In Paris, the protests were particularly striking, with members of the Femen activist group making a bold statement by marching topless through the streets. Their bodies bore the U.S. or Russian national flags, defaced with swastikas, a powerful symbol of their rejection of oppressive regimes and ideologies. The demonstration drew a significant crowd, with organizers estimating around 250,000 attendees, while police reported a figure of 47,000. For many, the protest was a deeply personal and emotional expression of resistance against systemic sexism and misogyny.
One protester, Sabine, a 49-year-old woman marching alongside her seven-year-old son, summed up the sentiment of many when she said, "This is a battle, it’s not over." Her words echoed the determination of the crowd, who were determined to push back against what they see as a growing threat to women’s rights. Sabine expressed optimism, however, stating, "We’re going in the right direction: Trump, the masculinists, they make lots of noise but they’re not as strong as we are." Her statement captured the resilience and hope that defined the protest.
The demonstrations were not limited to Paris. In Berlin, thousands gathered to voice their concerns about the erosion of women’s rights, particularly in the wake of political shifts in countries like the United States. Protesters carried signs with messages such as "Burn the patriarchy not the planet," highlighting the intersection of gender equality and environmental issues. For many, the fight for women’s rights is deeply intertwined with broader struggles for justice and equality.
One marcher, Steff Voigt, shared her fears about the future, expressing alarm at the potential rollback of women’s rights. "I find it quite frightening how certain developments are reversing, how women’s rights could simply be moving backward again, so to speak, because of the right. Especially in the USA," she said. Her words reflected a widespread anxiety among protesters about the impact of right-wing policies on women’s progress.
The protests in Paris and Berlin were just two examples of a global movement that continues to gain momentum. Demonstrators are determined to ensure that the progress made in women’s rights is not undone and that future generations continue to push forward. As Sabine and others made clear, the battle is far from over, but the collective strength and determination of women and allies around the world offer hope for a more equitable future.
