Tue Sep 17 02:41:00 UTC 2024: ## Asian Feminists Gather in Chiang Mai to Build a Better Future

**CHIANG MAI, THAILAND** – Over 500 feminist activists from across Asia gathered in Chiang Mai, Thailand, for the Asia Pacific Feminist Forum (APFF), a three-day event focused on “feminist world-building” and exploring ways to achieve a more just future. The event, organized by the Asia Pacific Forum on Women, Law and Development (APWLD), brought together diverse groups of women and activists from across the region, including Pakistani fisherwomen, Indigenous peoples fighting imperialism in West Papua, queer Dalits in India, Central Asian migrant workers, and Filipina careworkers.

The forum addressed a range of challenges facing women in the Asia-Pacific, including the devastating impact of militarism, fundamentalism, and the global debt crisis on marginalized communities. Participants highlighted the need for greater feminist engagement in addressing these issues, particularly the role of the defense industry and the impact of austerity measures on women’s rights.

Speakers also explored ways to move towards a future where women are truly included and their rights are respected. They stressed the importance of building solidarity across diverse movements and advocated for greater recognition of the experiences of women with disabilities, LGBTQ+ individuals, and other marginalized groups.

The conference emphasized the need for a shared vision and political unity among feminist movements in the region. Participants recognized the ongoing challenges but expressed optimism about building a better future through collective action, storytelling, and learning from past and present generations of feminist activists.

While the forum addressed many pressing issues, it was noted that the lack of Afghan representation was a glaring omission due to the current political situation in the country. The event also highlighted the difficulties faced by feminist activists in authoritarian contexts, including China, where participation is often limited due to safety concerns.

Despite the challenges, the APFF provided a vital platform for feminist movements across the Asia-Pacific to connect, share their experiences, and build solidarity towards a more just and equitable future for all.

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