Giving Birth to the Nation: Securitising Abortion Rights in Post-Socialist Poland

Abstract

This paper explores the journey of Polish women’s rights organisation FEDERA as it fought to secure abortion rights in the country amidst a backdrop of shifting political and social landscapes in the post-socialist era. Through a detailed analysis of FEDERA's evolution, the thesis explores how the organisation navigated the turbulent waters of Polish nationalism, gender identity, and international norms on women's rights to advocate for reproductive health and rights. The thesis traces FEDERA's efforts to securitise the right to abortion, from its inception in an increasingly conservative climate to its engagement with international conferences and transnational networks. By examining FEDERA's strategic use of language, legal frameworks, and transnational alliances, the thesis sheds light on how the organization sought to challenge patriarchal norms, address gender inequalities, and amplify the voices of Polish women in the global feminist movement. Through the lens of securitisation theory, the thesis underscores the unique challenges and triumphs faced by FEDERA in its pursuit of women's reproductive rights and the broader implications for women's activism in a post-socialist society.