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Different party families, similar opposition to gender equality? A comparative analysis of conservative and far-right parties in parliamentary debates in Belgium and Spain

By Romain Biesemans and Archibald Gustin

ÉDITION

Bristol University Press

COLLECTION

European Journal of Politics and Gender

LIEN

Abstract

The rise of far-right politics in Europe is often associated with growing opposition to gender equality. However, far-right parties are not the only actors engaged in this opposition: mainstream conservative parties have also actively challenged gender equality measures. This article investigates whether similarities can be observed between far-right and conservative parties’ positions in parliamentary debates. By analysing debates in Belgium and Spain on reforms to the notion of consent in sexual criminal law and on the protection of trans* rights, it demonstrates that far-right parties (Vlaams Belang and Vox) and conservative parties (Nieuw-Vlaamse Alliantie and Partido Popular) employ similar discursive strategies to contest gender equality. Nonetheless, the extent and form of this convergence differ depending on the specific gender issue and national context.

Mis à jour le 30 avril 2026