At the FIQ’s 13^th convention, feminist novelist and essayist Martine Delvaux gave a striking analysis of the rise of far-right movements and the resurgence of misogynist rhetoric. Since 90% of healthcare professionals are women, the return of a conservative rhetoric and the prevalence of hate cannot be taken as merely abstract questions. We must stay informed to confront it.

A worrying global context

The rise of the far right is widespread and not limited to our southern neighbours. It comes with a return to so-called traditional values, attacks on the right to abortion, an increase in transphobia and homophobia and a rise in the number of femicides. Martine Delvaux spoke about a re-masculinization of society, fed by growing economic inequality, increased political polarization, and rhetoric that seeks to divide. She qualified the current context as a broligarchy and highlighted that the boys club of billionaires in power protect and support one another, which the left and social movements have more difficulty with.

Engaging, even on a small scale

In this context, the most important thing is “to not disengage. We mustn’t tell ourselves that what we are doing doesn’t matter.” We must use our platform, no matter how big or small, to start discussions. For example, the Free Gaza Movement, kitchen gatherings, and union action are all ways, big and small, of generating vigilance and resistance.

She stressed the importance of naming abuses, but also of promoting practices like radical listening and empathy (seen as weak by masculinist communities and Trump admirers), but which are essential in care settings and can make all the difference in refocusing attention on people.