The Politicization of Gender

“When political power begins policing women and weaponizing gender, democracy is already in danger. Maria Barbu shows us how.” —Ruchira Gupta, Founder Apne Aap, author, The Freedom Seeker & I Kick and I Fly.

“Maria Barbu’s The Politicization of Gender: Far-Right Strategies in European Politics is a vital, rigorously researched examination of how European far-right movements manipulate traditional gender roles to consolidate power. By detailing the intersection of gender, race, and nationalism, Barbu provides an indispensable framework for understanding contemporary democratic backsliding. A highly recommended read for political sociologists.” —Sylvia Maier, Ph.D., Academic Director and Clinical Professor, Faculty Lead of the Global Gender Studies Concentration Center for Global Affairs, New York University.

“What distinguishes this monograph in the literature is its comparative focus on how far-right parties strategically deploy gender as a political tool across diverse Western European contexts. Barbu’s research highlights the ideological and tactical dimensions of gender politics, providing distinct insights into how far-right parties mobilize support on the Continent.” —Colette Mazzucelli, NYU SPS Center for Global Affairs and Pioneer Academics.

"This incisive monograph compellingly reveals how Europe’s far-right movements weaponize gender to mobilize voters and reshape democratic norms. Through a sharp comparative analysis of Italy and the Netherlands, it exposes the strategic flexibility of gender politics and its intersection with race, religion, and class—essential reading for understanding contemporary populism today".—Christian Rossi, Coordinator Master Course in International Relations, University of Cagliari, Italy.