Gender & Sexuality Studies 2026

Abstract

This paper examines the intersection of women’s rights, sexuality, and gender-based violence (GBV), emphasizing the critical role of feminist leadership in addressing these persistent global challenges. Drawing on experiences from North Africa and transnational feminist networks, it explores how structural inequalities, social norms, and discriminatory policies perpetuate violence and restrict women’s sexual and reproductive autonomy. The study highlights strategies employed by activists and civil society organizations to challenge these barriers, promote rights-based approaches, and create spaces where survivors’ voices are centered in policy and advocacy. Central to this discussion is the interrogation of traditional gender and sexual norms that constrain agency and normalize violence. The paper argues that tackling GBV requires not only legal and institutional reforms but also transformative approaches that incorporate intersectionality, inclusivity, and empowerment at the community level. Drawing on case studies of feminist initiatives, awareness campaigns, and leadership programs, it demonstrates how women-led advocacy can influence policy, reshape societal attitudes, and advance protective frameworks for vulnerable populations. By situating local activism within global movements, the paper offers insights into how feminist leadership can bridge grassroots action with international policy discourse, creating sustainable solutions to GBV and advancing sexual rights. Ultimately, this work contributes to reimagining gender and sexuality beyond binaries, highlighting the potential of feminist practice to foster justice, equity, and empowerment for women and marginalized groups worldwide. 

Biography

Najet Zammouri is a Tunisian human rights defender and feminist leader with over three decades of experience advancing gender equality and women’s rights. She is co-chair of the Nobel Peace Prizewinning organization La Ligue Tunisienne des Droits de l’Homme and has founded and directed initiatives empowering women and promoting civic engagement. An expert in pedagogy ,she has trained educators and designed innovative learning programs. Najet has participated in international dialogues on human rights, gender-based violence, and feminist leadership, and remains committed to fostering intersectional approaches, inclusive policies, and global empowerment initiatives