Women's and Feminist Activism in E astern and C entral E urope

Abstract

The past 60 years have brought significant changes in the lives of women living in Eastern and Central Europe. The rise of socialism in the region ushered in certain rights that women in the West would not see for decades. Despite the gains made behind the Iron Curtain during this era, independent women's organizations struggled to gain political recognition. The fall of socialism created new opportunities and challenges for women's and feminist organizations. Economic and political transitions and European Union mandates constitute the broad context within which women's organizations have proliferated in the past two decades in this region. These organizations have provided much needed social services, fought for women's reproductive and employment rights, aided survivors of violence, including war victims of rape and torture, and worked for peace in war‐torn areas.