Women Under Siege: Gender Equality in a Dangerous New Era – Waurn Ponds Library

Women were already facing significant inequality and the devastating impacts of gender-based violence. Now, these threats are being supercharged. The rise of the manosphere, extreme right-wing actors, and the unregulated spread of AI are fuelling new forms of misogyny and harm. Hard-won rights — including family planning and reproductive freedoms — are under siege globally and right here in Victoria. This talk examines where we are now, what is truly at stake for women and girls, and what we must do to fight back and protect the rights and safety of women everywhere. **About the Speaker** Aleta has held senior management roles across the United Nations and a range of domestic and international human rights and economic development initiatives, and is the author of seven books and a regular contributor to outlets including The Conversation and Michael West Media. She has been recognised with a number of prestigious awards, including a peace award, and is an independent candidate for Western Victoria.