Gender, Power, and Populism: Feminist Critique of Populist Leadership in Argentina, the U.S., and India

Abstract

In recent decades, the rise of right-wing populism has transformed the global political landscape, challenging traditional democratic structures and international norms on human rights and gender equality. This research examines three populist leaders: Javier Milei, Donald Trump and Narendra Modi instrumentalize gender narratives to consolidate power, eroding the rights of women and queer communities. Through a feminist and intersectional theoretical framework, it analyses their anti-gender rhetoric, regressive policies, and performances of masculinity, highlighting their impact on global governance. The case studies reveal transnational patterns and the resilience of feminist resistance movements. The study employs a theoretical framework that integrates feminist International Relations theories, critical gender studies, and populism research