Traditional Values in the International Realm: Why We Need More Dialogue between Anti-Gender Research and Foreign Policy Analysis

Abstract This research note argues for an increased dialogue between anti-gender politics research and feminist foreign policy analysis. Traditionally, comparative politics and sociology have examined anti-gender politics within the context of democratic backsliding and social movements, often incorporating transnational aspects, but rarely applying foreign policy analysis. The increasing prevalence of political leaders invoking illiberal gender norms in foreign and security policy, to position their political system in the global “culture wars,” warrants further cross-pollination between foreign policy analysis and over a decade of anti-gender research. To demonstrate this, this research note considers Russia’s use of “traditional values” in its foreign policy to justify authoritarianism and the use of force. The findings suggest that alongside the rise of feminist foreign policy, there is a parallel emergence of an anti-feminist foreign policy. More disciplinary dialogue is crucial for comprehensively grasping the global impact of anti-gender politics, especially regarding increased de-democratization and aggression.