Feminist Activism

Abstract

When Fujimori assumed power in 1990, the second-generation feminist movement in Peru already had almost two decades of organizing behind its back. Faced with the task of pursuing its agenda in the context of institutional transformations and neoliberal economic reform, the movement also experienced severe stress as part of civil society’s experience of neopopulist politics. Transnational and regional networking provided resources and strategies to Peruvian feminists building their power base and legitimacy against the all-mighty Fujimori. Tensions within the movement, however, revolved around the extent to which organized feminists should collaborate with the state and participate in electoral processes, thereby lending some support to the regime.