Women and Youth in Nonviolent Action Campaigns

An Intersectional Approach

Women and youth activists are routinely found on the front lines of the world’s most impressive nonviolent action campaigns, such as the ongoing protests in Iran. And research shows that women and youth can help movements: Nonviolent campaigns featuring extensive women and youth participation earn greater popular support and are associated with an increased likelihood of success, both in the immediate campaign and in pursuing subsequent democratic reforms.

However, women and youth also face persistent obstacles to participation — not just in civic movements, but also in the political transformations that follow. In addition, gender and youth identities are usually considered separately, so their intersection remains poorly understood. Men and women, both young and old, each face different opportunities and constraints, with implications for nonviolent campaign strategy and outcomes.

On January 10, USIP hosted a discussion on the dynamics of women and youth activism in contemporary nonviolent movements. The conversation featured researchers and activists as they reflected on why participation from women and young people helps movements succeed, how women and youth participation in civic movements has evolved over time, and the challenges that women and youth face in their efforts to build better futures.

For more information about this event, please visit

Speakers:

Jennifer Earl

Professor of Sociology, University of Arizona

Isabella Picón

Director of Participation and Alliances, Mi Convive

Marwa Louati

Facilitator, Synergizing Nonviolent Action and Peacebuilding, U.S. Institute of Peace

Emily Ritter

Associate Professor of Political Science, Vanderbilt University

Matthew Cebul, moderator

Research Officer, Nonviolent Action and Peacebuilding, U.S. Institute of Peace

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The United States Institute of Peace is a national, nonpartisan, independent institute, founded by Congress and dedicated to the proposition that a world without violent conflict is possible, practical and essential for U.S. and global security. In conflict zones abroad, the Institute works with local partners to prevent, mitigate, and resolve violent conflict. To reduce future crises and the need for costly interventions, USIP works with governments and civil societies to build local capacities to manage conflict peacefully. The Institute pursues its mission by linking research, policy, training, analysis and direct action to support those who are working to build a more peaceful, inclusive world. Learn more about USIP