Far-Manosphere: The Intersection of Antifeminism and Far-Right Discourses. Case Studies from Italy, Spain and Portugal

Online men's communities built around misogyny and opposition to feminist values - commonly known as the manosphere - have recently attracted academic attention. In research, the manosphere is usually described as a backlash movement in countries where gender equality is most advanced, and refers to an online movement of anti-feminist websites/media that focus primarily on 'men's issues'. At the same time, far-right groups are also increasing their focus on misogynist propaganda and activism, particularly as they recognise that misogyny is becoming an increasingly effective recruitment tool. The paper reflects on the intersection of anti-feminist and anti-immigration agendas in the Portuguese, Spanish and Italian far-right by critically analysing the discursive positions of Chega, Vox and Lega Nord on immigration, feminism and gender equality. After an overview of the current misogynist spaces and ideological narratives, the paper samples the online ecosystem of misogyny both within and across the parties' social media. Discursive positions on immigration, feminism, family law, gender-based violence and gender equality will be analysed to identify the discursive and organisational overlap with the far right.