Katrine Fangen | University of Oslo (original) (raw)
Papers by Katrine Fangen
Journal of Political Ideologies, 2024
This article delves into the transnational ideational influences that shape the discourse and ac... more This article delves into the transnational ideational influences that
shape the discourse and actions of actors who mobilize against
migration to Norway. While anti-immigrant sentiments often
revolve around the preservation of the nation-state, their inspirations frequently transcend national borders. Through interviews
with a diverse array of Norwegian actors who mobilize against
migration, from left-wing to right-wing, parliamentary to extraparliamentary, this study uncovers the multifaceted web of transnational influences. Two distinct streams emerge: one drawn from
exemplary entities, such as policies and politicians in other countries, and the other from ‘enlightening’ sources, like alternative
media and ‘intellectual entrepreneurs. These influences, while interconnected, cast different shades upon the anti-immigration worldview, some emanating from ‘alternative’ sources, while others from
the mainstream. This research not only deepens our understanding
of non-relational ideational diffusion but also illuminates the mainstreaming of nationalist ideologies. The article underscores the
significance of critical events and organic intellectuals in shaping
the cultural understanding of unconnected actors. By encompassing a broad spectrum of anti-immigration actors, this study
uncovers common threads that unite seemingly disparate actors,
offering insights into the shared dynamics of transnationalism.
Nations and Nationalism, 2024
Research has emphasised the importance of far-right transnationalism, in terms of both ideology ... more Research has emphasised the importance of far-right transnationalism, in terms of both ideology and practice. Yet, the
literature lacks a comprehensive analysis of how far-right
actors themselves reflect their transnational practices
(or lack thereof), such as party-level exchange, joint protest
events, or online communication. Drawing on original interview data from Germany and Norway, our research unveils
that while far-right ‘nationalists’ generally endorse transnational activities, only a minority actively participates. The
interviewees perceive transnational practices as opportunities for strategic learning, showcasing of collective strength,
and networking. Simultaneously, they express concerns
about being associated with extremists and getting
entangled in conflict-ridden areas. Theoretically, we discuss
the role of ideology and everyday life as well as the importance of only limited strategic incentives for understanding
far-right transnationalism. In doing so, we draw parallels to
experiences made by left-wing actors. Moreover, we underline the potential of Granovetter's ‘strength of weak ties’
for far-right diffusion.
Globalizations, 2024
In recent years, a series of global crises have triggered a heightened politicization of internat... more In recent years, a series of global crises have triggered a heightened politicization of international policy efforts and a questioning of the role of global forums in the management of these crises. This article investigates the perspectives of diverse actors who mobilize against immigration to Norway, including actors from the mainstream right and left and from the far right and the far left, to analyse how they frame the impact of global political entities for migration. Based on an analysis of 27 interviews with politicians, social movement activists, and knowledge producers, we explore how radical actors employ anti-globalism frames to delegitimize refugee reception, whereas mainstream actors advocate for the regulation of migration by referencing global agreements. Ultimately, our study further nuances cleavage theory by examining how nationalism and populism intersect within the spectrum from moderate to radical viewpoints regarding the role of globalization in the realm of immigration.
Politics, Religion & Ideology, 2020
Since the turn of the century, anti-Islamic sentiments have become increasingly present in public... more Since the turn of the century, anti-Islamic sentiments have become increasingly present in public debate. Scholars conducting research on the far right have even warned that the extreme has become mainstream. A key aspect of this situation is the prominence of gender images in the construction of 'us and them' distinctions in arguments against Muslims and Islam. This article examines two anti-Islamic Facebook groups. The main arguments of participants in these groups are that Norwegian women are in need of protection from dangerous Muslim men, and that Muslim women are oppressed but there is no need to feel sorry for them as they have chosen this subordinate position themselves. Further, group members not only make use of the well-known stereotypes of dangerous Muslim men and Muslim women as victims, but do so in explicitly sexist language, so that it is difficult to see them as unequivocal proponents of gender equality. Humour, emotions and jargon contribute to building a group atmosphere of xenophobia. The article analyses the group discussions in the light of theories and concepts of 'femonationalism' and rightwing populism.
Norsk sosiologisk tidsskrift, 2021
Sosiologisk tidsskrift, 2007
How do East-German youth react towards the changing society of 1990"? This thesis explores differ... more How do East-German youth react towards the changing society of 1990"? This thesis explores different aspects of the answer to this ques tion. It is based on fieldwork in the ex-GOR in the au tumn and winter of 1990. Three youthcultur es are studied; socialistic youth in East-Berlin, anarchistic youth in Leipzig and-9-9.1.8.2 DDR-id en tite t 9.1.8.3 Verdensborger-id en titet 9.1.8.4 Kristen over-nasjonal identitet 9.1.8.5 Distansert nasjonal identitet 9.2 Anarkistene 9.2.1 Delingen og gjenforeningen av Tysklan d 9.2.2 Vennekretsen so m H eima t 9.2.3 Neglisjering av det tyske 9.2.4 Ingen typisk tysk historie 9.2.5 Den spontane vesttysker 9.2.6 Den underlegne østtysker 9.2.7 Anarkistenes nasjonale identitet 9.2.7.1 Idealisering av den russiske mentalitet 9.2.7.2. Lengsel mot andre kul turer 9.2.7.3 Lokalid en titet 9.2.7.4 O ppsum me rin g 9.3 Nasjonalistene 9.3.1 Delin gen og gjenforeningen av Tyskland 9.3.2 Den tyske Heimat 9.3.3 Identitet som tysker 9.3.4 En imaginaer tysk fortid 9.3.5 "Det gy ldne Vesten" og d et trivielle ø ste n 9.3.6 Nasjonalistenes nasjon ale identitet 9.3.6.1 Stor-Tyskl and som ideal 9.3.6.2 Vest-Tyskl and som id eal 9.4 Det (øsntyske spørsmål og tre løsninger 9.4.1 Bedømmelse av DDR 9.4.2 Bedømmelse av Heimat 9.4.3 Bedømmelse av det å vaere tysk / Tyskland 9.4.4 Bedømmelse av Adolf Hitler • Jfr.de dominerende "skoler" i ungdomskulturforskningen, dvs. Chicagoteoretikeme og-38-2.4.5 De intervjuede og deres sosiale bakgrunn 2.4.5.1 Sosialistene
The aim of the EUMARGINS policy report is to inform the current EU policy debate and policy frame... more The aim of the EUMARGINS policy report is to inform the current EU policy debate and policy framework in the areas of social inclusion and exclusion of young people with immigrant background. The policy report will present a short summary of current EU policy frames and will discuss how EUMARGINS research results can inform policy. The policy report will conclude with concrete policy recommendations.
List of Figures List of Photographs Notes on Contributors Social Exclusion and Inclusion of Young... more List of Figures List of Photographs Notes on Contributors Social Exclusion and Inclusion of Young Migrants: Presentation of an Analytical Framework K.Fangen, T.Johansson & N.Hammaren Analysis of Life Stories Across National Borders K.Fangen Migration and the Terms of Inclusion L.Back & S.Sinha Pathways in Education J.Strompl, K.Kaldur & A.Markina The Different Dimensions of Inclusion in the Labour Market V.Ferry, M.Lambert & G.Prouve Being Heard or Being Seen O.Romani, C.Feixa & A.Latorre Building a Home R.Alzetta Margins and Centres: The Voices of Young Immigrants in Europe K.Fangen Bibliography Index
Aile rapportene kan fds ved henvendelse til Akademika-You can order any of these reports from Aka... more Aile rapportene kan fds ved henvendelse til Akademika-You can order any of these reports from Akademika, The University of Oslo books hop 1:1995 Bergljot Baklien UTSOLGT Ungdommelig entusiasme meter skole hverdagen. Totrinns rusmiddelundervisning en evalueringsrapport Madsbu gjennomstremning Aile rapportene kan fas ved henvendelse til Akademika-Aile rapportene kan fas ved henvendelse til Akademika-You can order any of these reports from Akademika, The University of Oslo bookshop You can order any of these reports from Akademika, The University of Oslo bookshop
Labour market participation is commonly conceptualized as an indicator of immigrant integration, ... more Labour market participation is commonly conceptualized as an indicator of immigrant integration, although integration is not something that should be conflated with inclusion. The mere fact of employment is no silver bullet. The sociology of work needs to consider experiences of exclusion both before and after entry to the labour market. This article is based on a 25-case selection of 50 in-depth interviews that we conducted with young adults of ethnic minority background in Norway. We analyse their experiences of, and reactions to, exclusion in the labour market. While for several interviewees the possibility of being met with ethnic prejudice from employers looms large, more experiences of this sort were reported among interviewees engaged in customer contact, where the inside of an organization intersects with the outside world.
Hate crime is a fluid category that has been constructed and implemented in a variety of ways wit... more Hate crime is a fluid category that has been constructed and implemented in a variety of ways within the legal system and in political discourse. As hate crime policies have been developed in many divergent directions across the globe, the outcomes they generate are likely to be rather diverse and conflicting. This paper situates the Norwegian configuration of hate crime legislation, policy and political discourse among key international debates on the topic. It analyses political and legislative debates that occurred in Norway prior to the implementation of its updated hate crime legislation in 2015.
Sosiologisk tidsskrift, 2006
This article analyses modes of adaptation and identification among Somalis in Norway. Do Somalis ... more This article analyses modes of adaptation and identification among Somalis in Norway. Do Somalis emphasize their belonging to Norwegian or Somali culture or to both? Do they emphasize other cultural belonging as an alternative to the Norwegian/Somali dichotomy? How do different modes of adaptation influence the different variants of identification and belonging? The article is based on semi-structured in-depth interviews with 37 Somalis. In addition, I conducted participant observation in families and at cultural events, participated in a casual conversation group of young Somalis and regularly participated in a focus group for Somali women. The interviews were conducted in the respondents' homes, in cafes or in my office, depending on respondent preference. The data were collected in the period 2003 to 2005 and all interviews lasted between 1 and 2 hours. The article shows that Somalis who seek assimilation in Norwegian society tend to underline their Norwegian belonging more, whereas those underlining a hybrid mode of adaptation underline different combinations of Somali and Norwegian belonging. Some who seek to maintain their Somali belonging do not necessarily seek membership in the Somali community in Norway, but instead try to maintain a Somali identity by only partly changing their lifestyle. Ethnic incorporation other than Somali is also a possible alternative, for example underlining one's belonging to an African or Muslim community. Some experience their identity as something they cannot choose, because skin-colour renders Somali belonging the dominant one no matter how integrated one is. Some identities are politicized, because they provide grounds for action and collective organization. Even though ethnicity is an important unit of identification for Somalis, it varies to the extent the individual underlines his or her identity with all Somalis, or with some category of Somalis (for example those with further education) or whether they also underline their identity with Norwegian society.
Journal of Political Ideologies, 2020
Since 2011, we have witnessed both the worst terror attack ever on Norwegian soil as well as an a... more Since 2011, we have witnessed both the worst terror attack ever on Norwegian soil as well as an attempted act of terror. Both actions were conducted by right-wing extremists, who were radicalized by inspiration from, but not actual participation in, far right anti-Islamist groups. Even though most of the current far right groups in Norway do not openly support violence they are not innocent, as the rhetoric they propagate has directly inspired such actions. In this article, we use social movement theory to understand interviews we conducted with leaders of two anti-Islamist groups and one neo-Nazi group, specifically to analyse their mobilizing ideas and proposed solutions to the problems they imagine, as well as whether they believe they have support in the general population. Further, we analyse how the actors' views relate to broader discourses in society. As a background to our analysis, we refer to the larger landscape of far-right groups in Norway during past decades, as well as their equivalents in other European countries.
Politics, Religion & Ideology, 2020
View related articles View Crossmark data Editorial: special issue on gender and the far right De... more View related articles View Crossmark data Editorial: special issue on gender and the far right Debates about, as well as changes in, gender norms and gender policies have great potential for political mobilization: they encircle social and political developments as movements towards societal stabilization-or its opposite, destabilization. Contested issues include abortion, family policy, whether women are by nature more suited for childcare than men, sex education in schools, teaching of gender studies at universities, views on sexual minorities (including homosexuals' right to marry and to adopt children). Positions on these issues follow political dividing lines, with the far right at one end of the spectrum. At the same time as the global governance system is pushing for increased gender equality, there are powerful forces opposed to such a goal. Anti-feminist and anti-gender-equality sentiments mark new nationalist policies and rhetoric, as well as populist and extremist mobilization. Several scholars have argued that we are witnessing the rise of a new form of patriarchy and masculine norms and grievances, as well as the fear of a low of traditional values. 1 Male resentment and victimhood among certain groups is heralded as one of many explanatory factors for much of the nationalist mobilization and political change observed in recent years: from the coming to power of Donald J. Trump in the USA, Rodrigo Duterte in the Philippines and Jair Bolsonaro in Brazil, to Brexit and illiberal democratic developments in Europe. 2 Against this backdrop, the centrality of gendered arguments and gendered policies to the far right has become increasingly clear. This is evident not only in national policies, as recently exemplified by the ban on abortion in Poland and the ban on gender studies in Hungary, but also in far-right populist parties and the importance accorded to family policies and traditional gender roles, 3 and in the utilization of support for women's (and sometimes gay) rights, particularly in arguments against Islam. Further, more and more women are engaging at all levels of the far right-as followers, members and leaders 4-and this upswing comes at a time when threats from the far right have spurred increasing security concerns in many Western European countries. 5 Research on the importance of gender for the
Journal of Political Ideologies, 2024
This article delves into the transnational ideational influences that shape the discourse and ac... more This article delves into the transnational ideational influences that
shape the discourse and actions of actors who mobilize against
migration to Norway. While anti-immigrant sentiments often
revolve around the preservation of the nation-state, their inspirations frequently transcend national borders. Through interviews
with a diverse array of Norwegian actors who mobilize against
migration, from left-wing to right-wing, parliamentary to extraparliamentary, this study uncovers the multifaceted web of transnational influences. Two distinct streams emerge: one drawn from
exemplary entities, such as policies and politicians in other countries, and the other from ‘enlightening’ sources, like alternative
media and ‘intellectual entrepreneurs. These influences, while interconnected, cast different shades upon the anti-immigration worldview, some emanating from ‘alternative’ sources, while others from
the mainstream. This research not only deepens our understanding
of non-relational ideational diffusion but also illuminates the mainstreaming of nationalist ideologies. The article underscores the
significance of critical events and organic intellectuals in shaping
the cultural understanding of unconnected actors. By encompassing a broad spectrum of anti-immigration actors, this study
uncovers common threads that unite seemingly disparate actors,
offering insights into the shared dynamics of transnationalism.
Nations and Nationalism, 2024
Research has emphasised the importance of far-right transnationalism, in terms of both ideology ... more Research has emphasised the importance of far-right transnationalism, in terms of both ideology and practice. Yet, the
literature lacks a comprehensive analysis of how far-right
actors themselves reflect their transnational practices
(or lack thereof), such as party-level exchange, joint protest
events, or online communication. Drawing on original interview data from Germany and Norway, our research unveils
that while far-right ‘nationalists’ generally endorse transnational activities, only a minority actively participates. The
interviewees perceive transnational practices as opportunities for strategic learning, showcasing of collective strength,
and networking. Simultaneously, they express concerns
about being associated with extremists and getting
entangled in conflict-ridden areas. Theoretically, we discuss
the role of ideology and everyday life as well as the importance of only limited strategic incentives for understanding
far-right transnationalism. In doing so, we draw parallels to
experiences made by left-wing actors. Moreover, we underline the potential of Granovetter's ‘strength of weak ties’
for far-right diffusion.
Globalizations, 2024
In recent years, a series of global crises have triggered a heightened politicization of internat... more In recent years, a series of global crises have triggered a heightened politicization of international policy efforts and a questioning of the role of global forums in the management of these crises. This article investigates the perspectives of diverse actors who mobilize against immigration to Norway, including actors from the mainstream right and left and from the far right and the far left, to analyse how they frame the impact of global political entities for migration. Based on an analysis of 27 interviews with politicians, social movement activists, and knowledge producers, we explore how radical actors employ anti-globalism frames to delegitimize refugee reception, whereas mainstream actors advocate for the regulation of migration by referencing global agreements. Ultimately, our study further nuances cleavage theory by examining how nationalism and populism intersect within the spectrum from moderate to radical viewpoints regarding the role of globalization in the realm of immigration.
Politics, Religion & Ideology, 2020
Since the turn of the century, anti-Islamic sentiments have become increasingly present in public... more Since the turn of the century, anti-Islamic sentiments have become increasingly present in public debate. Scholars conducting research on the far right have even warned that the extreme has become mainstream. A key aspect of this situation is the prominence of gender images in the construction of 'us and them' distinctions in arguments against Muslims and Islam. This article examines two anti-Islamic Facebook groups. The main arguments of participants in these groups are that Norwegian women are in need of protection from dangerous Muslim men, and that Muslim women are oppressed but there is no need to feel sorry for them as they have chosen this subordinate position themselves. Further, group members not only make use of the well-known stereotypes of dangerous Muslim men and Muslim women as victims, but do so in explicitly sexist language, so that it is difficult to see them as unequivocal proponents of gender equality. Humour, emotions and jargon contribute to building a group atmosphere of xenophobia. The article analyses the group discussions in the light of theories and concepts of 'femonationalism' and rightwing populism.
Norsk sosiologisk tidsskrift, 2021
Sosiologisk tidsskrift, 2007
How do East-German youth react towards the changing society of 1990"? This thesis explores differ... more How do East-German youth react towards the changing society of 1990"? This thesis explores different aspects of the answer to this ques tion. It is based on fieldwork in the ex-GOR in the au tumn and winter of 1990. Three youthcultur es are studied; socialistic youth in East-Berlin, anarchistic youth in Leipzig and-9-9.1.8.2 DDR-id en tite t 9.1.8.3 Verdensborger-id en titet 9.1.8.4 Kristen over-nasjonal identitet 9.1.8.5 Distansert nasjonal identitet 9.2 Anarkistene 9.2.1 Delingen og gjenforeningen av Tysklan d 9.2.2 Vennekretsen so m H eima t 9.2.3 Neglisjering av det tyske 9.2.4 Ingen typisk tysk historie 9.2.5 Den spontane vesttysker 9.2.6 Den underlegne østtysker 9.2.7 Anarkistenes nasjonale identitet 9.2.7.1 Idealisering av den russiske mentalitet 9.2.7.2. Lengsel mot andre kul turer 9.2.7.3 Lokalid en titet 9.2.7.4 O ppsum me rin g 9.3 Nasjonalistene 9.3.1 Delin gen og gjenforeningen av Tyskland 9.3.2 Den tyske Heimat 9.3.3 Identitet som tysker 9.3.4 En imaginaer tysk fortid 9.3.5 "Det gy ldne Vesten" og d et trivielle ø ste n 9.3.6 Nasjonalistenes nasjon ale identitet 9.3.6.1 Stor-Tyskl and som ideal 9.3.6.2 Vest-Tyskl and som id eal 9.4 Det (øsntyske spørsmål og tre løsninger 9.4.1 Bedømmelse av DDR 9.4.2 Bedømmelse av Heimat 9.4.3 Bedømmelse av det å vaere tysk / Tyskland 9.4.4 Bedømmelse av Adolf Hitler • Jfr.de dominerende "skoler" i ungdomskulturforskningen, dvs. Chicagoteoretikeme og-38-2.4.5 De intervjuede og deres sosiale bakgrunn 2.4.5.1 Sosialistene
The aim of the EUMARGINS policy report is to inform the current EU policy debate and policy frame... more The aim of the EUMARGINS policy report is to inform the current EU policy debate and policy framework in the areas of social inclusion and exclusion of young people with immigrant background. The policy report will present a short summary of current EU policy frames and will discuss how EUMARGINS research results can inform policy. The policy report will conclude with concrete policy recommendations.
List of Figures List of Photographs Notes on Contributors Social Exclusion and Inclusion of Young... more List of Figures List of Photographs Notes on Contributors Social Exclusion and Inclusion of Young Migrants: Presentation of an Analytical Framework K.Fangen, T.Johansson & N.Hammaren Analysis of Life Stories Across National Borders K.Fangen Migration and the Terms of Inclusion L.Back & S.Sinha Pathways in Education J.Strompl, K.Kaldur & A.Markina The Different Dimensions of Inclusion in the Labour Market V.Ferry, M.Lambert & G.Prouve Being Heard or Being Seen O.Romani, C.Feixa & A.Latorre Building a Home R.Alzetta Margins and Centres: The Voices of Young Immigrants in Europe K.Fangen Bibliography Index
Aile rapportene kan fds ved henvendelse til Akademika-You can order any of these reports from Aka... more Aile rapportene kan fds ved henvendelse til Akademika-You can order any of these reports from Akademika, The University of Oslo books hop 1:1995 Bergljot Baklien UTSOLGT Ungdommelig entusiasme meter skole hverdagen. Totrinns rusmiddelundervisning en evalueringsrapport Madsbu gjennomstremning Aile rapportene kan fas ved henvendelse til Akademika-Aile rapportene kan fas ved henvendelse til Akademika-You can order any of these reports from Akademika, The University of Oslo bookshop You can order any of these reports from Akademika, The University of Oslo bookshop
Labour market participation is commonly conceptualized as an indicator of immigrant integration, ... more Labour market participation is commonly conceptualized as an indicator of immigrant integration, although integration is not something that should be conflated with inclusion. The mere fact of employment is no silver bullet. The sociology of work needs to consider experiences of exclusion both before and after entry to the labour market. This article is based on a 25-case selection of 50 in-depth interviews that we conducted with young adults of ethnic minority background in Norway. We analyse their experiences of, and reactions to, exclusion in the labour market. While for several interviewees the possibility of being met with ethnic prejudice from employers looms large, more experiences of this sort were reported among interviewees engaged in customer contact, where the inside of an organization intersects with the outside world.
Hate crime is a fluid category that has been constructed and implemented in a variety of ways wit... more Hate crime is a fluid category that has been constructed and implemented in a variety of ways within the legal system and in political discourse. As hate crime policies have been developed in many divergent directions across the globe, the outcomes they generate are likely to be rather diverse and conflicting. This paper situates the Norwegian configuration of hate crime legislation, policy and political discourse among key international debates on the topic. It analyses political and legislative debates that occurred in Norway prior to the implementation of its updated hate crime legislation in 2015.
Sosiologisk tidsskrift, 2006
This article analyses modes of adaptation and identification among Somalis in Norway. Do Somalis ... more This article analyses modes of adaptation and identification among Somalis in Norway. Do Somalis emphasize their belonging to Norwegian or Somali culture or to both? Do they emphasize other cultural belonging as an alternative to the Norwegian/Somali dichotomy? How do different modes of adaptation influence the different variants of identification and belonging? The article is based on semi-structured in-depth interviews with 37 Somalis. In addition, I conducted participant observation in families and at cultural events, participated in a casual conversation group of young Somalis and regularly participated in a focus group for Somali women. The interviews were conducted in the respondents' homes, in cafes or in my office, depending on respondent preference. The data were collected in the period 2003 to 2005 and all interviews lasted between 1 and 2 hours. The article shows that Somalis who seek assimilation in Norwegian society tend to underline their Norwegian belonging more, whereas those underlining a hybrid mode of adaptation underline different combinations of Somali and Norwegian belonging. Some who seek to maintain their Somali belonging do not necessarily seek membership in the Somali community in Norway, but instead try to maintain a Somali identity by only partly changing their lifestyle. Ethnic incorporation other than Somali is also a possible alternative, for example underlining one's belonging to an African or Muslim community. Some experience their identity as something they cannot choose, because skin-colour renders Somali belonging the dominant one no matter how integrated one is. Some identities are politicized, because they provide grounds for action and collective organization. Even though ethnicity is an important unit of identification for Somalis, it varies to the extent the individual underlines his or her identity with all Somalis, or with some category of Somalis (for example those with further education) or whether they also underline their identity with Norwegian society.
Journal of Political Ideologies, 2020
Since 2011, we have witnessed both the worst terror attack ever on Norwegian soil as well as an a... more Since 2011, we have witnessed both the worst terror attack ever on Norwegian soil as well as an attempted act of terror. Both actions were conducted by right-wing extremists, who were radicalized by inspiration from, but not actual participation in, far right anti-Islamist groups. Even though most of the current far right groups in Norway do not openly support violence they are not innocent, as the rhetoric they propagate has directly inspired such actions. In this article, we use social movement theory to understand interviews we conducted with leaders of two anti-Islamist groups and one neo-Nazi group, specifically to analyse their mobilizing ideas and proposed solutions to the problems they imagine, as well as whether they believe they have support in the general population. Further, we analyse how the actors' views relate to broader discourses in society. As a background to our analysis, we refer to the larger landscape of far-right groups in Norway during past decades, as well as their equivalents in other European countries.
Politics, Religion & Ideology, 2020
View related articles View Crossmark data Editorial: special issue on gender and the far right De... more View related articles View Crossmark data Editorial: special issue on gender and the far right Debates about, as well as changes in, gender norms and gender policies have great potential for political mobilization: they encircle social and political developments as movements towards societal stabilization-or its opposite, destabilization. Contested issues include abortion, family policy, whether women are by nature more suited for childcare than men, sex education in schools, teaching of gender studies at universities, views on sexual minorities (including homosexuals' right to marry and to adopt children). Positions on these issues follow political dividing lines, with the far right at one end of the spectrum. At the same time as the global governance system is pushing for increased gender equality, there are powerful forces opposed to such a goal. Anti-feminist and anti-gender-equality sentiments mark new nationalist policies and rhetoric, as well as populist and extremist mobilization. Several scholars have argued that we are witnessing the rise of a new form of patriarchy and masculine norms and grievances, as well as the fear of a low of traditional values. 1 Male resentment and victimhood among certain groups is heralded as one of many explanatory factors for much of the nationalist mobilization and political change observed in recent years: from the coming to power of Donald J. Trump in the USA, Rodrigo Duterte in the Philippines and Jair Bolsonaro in Brazil, to Brexit and illiberal democratic developments in Europe. 2 Against this backdrop, the centrality of gendered arguments and gendered policies to the far right has become increasingly clear. This is evident not only in national policies, as recently exemplified by the ban on abortion in Poland and the ban on gender studies in Hungary, but also in far-right populist parties and the importance accorded to family policies and traditional gender roles, 3 and in the utilization of support for women's (and sometimes gay) rights, particularly in arguments against Islam. Further, more and more women are engaging at all levels of the far right-as followers, members and leaders 4-and this upswing comes at a time when threats from the far right have spurred increasing security concerns in many Western European countries. 5 Research on the importance of gender for the