Women’s rights in peril: The ripple effect of the U.S. election

My aim in writing this is not to critique the results of the recent U.S. election or delve into debates on crucial policies such as the economy, immigration, climate change, or foreign relations. Instead, I want to shed light on one significant and far-reaching by product of these results: the profound impact on women, both within the United States and globally.

This article seeks to explore the ripple effect of American policies and leadership rhetoric on women worldwide, offering essential context as to why these matters resonate beyond U.S. borders.

When the results were announced, I felt a deep sense of unease, and this seems to be the case with many women worldwide. It wasn’t just about the political outcome in a country far from home; it was the recognition that shifts in American policy could impact hard-won rights and set a precedent that might encourage regressive attitudes elsewhere.

It might seem puzzling why women in far-off countries, like me here in Australia, are paying such close attention to an election in a place we may never have visited. But the reality is that American leadership holds global influence. Policies and rhetoric from the United States shape norms worldwide, creating ripples that can either strengthen or undermine gender equality. We are very much aware the U.S. is the most culturally influential country in the world.

Consider abortion rights as an example. Under the Trump administration, the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade led to near-total abortion bans in 14 states. Such restrictions have had a chilling effect globally, emboldening conservative movements in other countries to push for limits on women’s reproductive autonomy.

In Australia, for instance, while abortion has been decriminalized nationwide, it is not constitutionally protected. This legal fragility means that a change in political leadership could jeopardize reproductive rights, making American precedents all the more relevant.

Equally concerning is the normalization of harmful rhetoric toward female leaders. Donald Trump has a well-documented history of making disparaging remarks about women.  For example, he referred to journalist Megyn Kelly as a “bimbo” and has insulted numerous women’s appearances and abilities.

During the lead up to the election Donald Trump repeatedly disrespected Vice President Kamala Harris by labelling her with derogatory terms like “lazy” and “dumb,” harmful stereotypes aimed at undermining her intelligence and capabilities. This kind of rhetoric can normalize sexist and racist stereotypes, making it harder for women to gain respect and recognition in leadership positions around the world.

These patterns of behavior contribute to a broader issue where women, especially those in leadership positions, are subjected to scrutiny and criticism based on their gender rather than their qualifications or performance. This environment can discourage women from pursuing leadership roles and perpetuates gender inequality.

Additionally, the views of J.D. Vance, now Vice President-elect, are worrying. He has made inflammatory remarks about women, such as dismissing female leaders without children as “cat ladies” and opposing abortion even in cases of rape or incest. His stance on marriage and divorce raises serious red flags, suggesting that people should remain in unhealthy or even abusive marriages for the sake of family.

These regressive views have a tangible impact. As Australian journalist Annabel Crabb reflected after the 2016 U.S. election: “Of all the dead-wrong predictions made about this election, nothing could be more off-beam than the expectation that it would provide a unifying moment for American women.” This observation remains relevant today, as the election results have once again divided the nation and brought renewed anxieties about the future of women’s rights.

As the saying goes, “When America sneezes, the world catches a cold.” This time, however, for women everywhere, it feels like more than a cold. With critical issues at stake—from reproductive rights to the normalization of harmful rhetoric toward female leaders—the consequences of this election echo loudly, reminding us of how interconnected our fight for equality truly is.

The US National Organization for Women (NOW) highlights that Donald Trump’s win was fueled by a base willing to embrace his racism, misogyny, and xenophobia, choosing those over the ideals of unity and democracy.

Kamala Harris, meanwhile, sought to move the country forward, while Trump’s campaign focused on taking the country backward, targeting the very rights women have fought for over the last one hundred years

What, then, can be done? The challenges may seem insurmountable, but there are meaningful ways to push for change. Supporting organizations that fight for reproductive rights and gender equality, advocating for more women in leadership positions, and amplifying the voices of female leaders worldwide are crucial steps.

We can also engage in dialogues that educate and challenge misogynistic norms while fostering global solidarity among women and allies. We all have the power to effect change, support one another and push forward in the fight for equality, regardless of our location or gender.

Our collective resilience and determination are crucial in advancing equality and protecting fundamental rights. By standing together and working for change, we can build a more just and equitable world.