Weaving Change: The Power of Women’s Movements in Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Policy Brief

Formed in 2021, the WEAVE Collective brings together researchers and activists from Australia, India, South Africa, and Nicaragua to shine a light on the vital role of feminist movements in ending violence against women and girls (VAWG). Rooted in feminist and Indigenist research methods, the Collective centres historically marginalised voices and documents the power of women’s organising in resisting oppression and driving social transformation.

This policy brief builds on that work, presenting a clear call to action for policymakers, donors, and philanthropic organisations. It demonstrates how women’s movements have been at the forefront of advancing gender equality, influencing policy reform, holding governments to account, and creating safer, more equitable societies. At the same time, it highlights the urgent challenges these movements face, from political backlash and shrinking democratic space to the criminalisation of activism.

The brief provides practical, evidence-based recommendations for how decision-makers can act now: by protecting civic space, committing sustained and flexible funding, and fostering stronger collaboration with feminist organisations. The message is clear—the cost of inaction is too great. By investing in women’s movements today, we can safeguard hard-won gains and accelerate progress towards a world free from violence against women and girls.