Breaking Chains: Unraveling the Intersection of Law and State Control in Shaping Gender Identity, Sexuality, and Bodily Autonomy

A Thematic Discussion

Date: 18 February 2024

Time: 11:30 am to 1 pm

Venue: GFF Tent (Exact venue TBC)

Introduction

In contemporary society, the struggle for gender equality and bodily autonomy continues to be deeply entwined with legal frameworks and state apparatuses. The Global Feminist Forum (GFF), a vital platform within the broader discourse of feminism, recognizes the urgent need to address the complexities and challenges posed by the intersection of law and state control concerning gender identity, sexuality, and bodily autonomy. This thematic discussion seeks to delve into these multifaceted issues, unraveling the ways in which legal systems and state interventions shape, regulate, and often oppress individuals' expressions of gender, sexuality, and bodily autonomy.

Objectives

• To critically examine the role of legal frameworks in perpetuating or challenging gender norms, stereotypes, and power structures.
• To explore the impact of state control, including legislation, policies, and enforcement, on the rights and freedoms of individuals in expressing their gender identity and sexuality.
• To identify strategies for resistance, advocacy, and legal reform aimed at dismantling oppressive systems and advancing gender justice, sexual rights, and bodily autonomy.
• To foster dialogue, solidarity, and knowledge exchange among feminist activists engaged at the nexus of law, gender, Sexuality and bodily autonomy.

Format

The thematic discussion will feature a panel discussion with the experienced activists from around the world, followed by interaction with the audience members providing opportunities for diverse voices and perspectives to be heard. Emphasis will be placed on fostering inclusive and intersectional dialogue, centering the experiences and expertise of those most affected by oppressive legal systems.

Speakers: Ivy Teressa, Saffana Abu Safyeh, and Farah Shaer