Paper details
| Paper authors | Ricardo Fal-Dutra Santos |
| In panel on | Feminist crisis response amidst anti-rights politics and backlash: insights from hum. practice (Roundtable) |
| Paper presenter(s) will be presenting |
In-Person / |
Abstract
In my intervention, I will reflect on common arguments raised against the integration of gender-transformative action in humanitarian settings – particularly around principles, culture, and politics – and offer responses grounded in both practice and theory.
First, I challenge the notion that gender-transformative approaches violate humanitarian principles, particularly neutrality. Drawing on my previous writing, I argue that neutrality does not require silence on structural injustice; rather, the principles of humanity and impartiality compel us to address gender-based harm.
Second, I engage with the argument that such work constitutes unwarranted interference with culture. Based on my research, I contend that humanitarian action has long sought to transform cultures – promoting a culture of restraint in war, a culture of resilience, and a humanitarian culture itself. Gender-transformative action should follow the same path, while focusing on supporting local feminist actors already seeking to transform cultural practices in their own contexts.
Finally, I question the claim that humanitarian action is or should be apolitical. Drawing from political theory and historical practice, I suggest that humanitarianism is inherently political, and that this foundation should include a commitment to gender justice.
These reflections aim to contribute to a collective feminist reimagining of humanitarianism in the face of backlash.
