From November 12-15, members of the Women’s Fund team and partners, along with colleagues from Georgia, Ukraine, and Germany, took part in the Resilience Meeting in Warsaw hosted by the filia Women’s Fund.
The concept of resilience has gained significant traction not only among feminist organizations but also across various groups and initiatives. However, its widespread use has brought diverse interpretations and practices that can sometimes be overwhelming. For some, resilience is equated with emotional suppression, which is hardly achievable in practice 😊. Others view it as the capacity for physical and emotional endurance, while some associate it solely with financial stability. In certain instances, resilience represents a steadfast commitment to justice and values, regardless of circumstances.
During the discussions, one participant from Armenia noted:
“In Armenia, even within women’s organizations, we often focus heavily on discussions, courses, and training that primarily strengthen our minds. But alongside this, we must also address our bodies and emotions, which are frequently neglected.”
This perspective echoes themes explored in the Women’s Fund’s latest publication, which highlights how women’s organizations across various contexts are cultivating resilience while maintaining solidarity with one another.
As we reflect on our work, we are reminded of the importance of tending to our holistic well-being—our minds, bodies, emotions, and social connections. The last few years have placed immense demands on civil society, particularly women’s organizations, which have tirelessly worked to navigate crises while often neglecting their own needs as individuals. Many in our network stress the need for a “spiritual front line” to sustain the drive and commitment required for our missions.
These conversations emphasize the value of self-compassion—acknowledging our contributions to positive change, supporting each other through challenges, and fostering collective resilience without exploiting one another’s struggles.
Strengthening Bonds and Learning Across Borders
The meeting also placed a strong focus on reconnecting with our physical selves and creating shared spaces of care. Such international gatherings play a vital role in strengthening the global feminist movement, especially in the face of current political shifts worldwide. Cultural differences may shape how resilience is practiced, but one thing remains clear: we all deserve to feel well, care for our bodies, and nourish ourselves without guilt. As the adage goes, “You must first put on your own oxygen mask before assisting others.”
These sessions also allowed us to assess where we stand as civil societies facing varying yet interlinked political, economic, and social challenges. Our colleagues from Georgia shared insights about the hurdles women’s organizations face, particularly due to a new law on foreign agents and recent elections. This was an opportunity to recognize shared cultural barriers to women’s empowerment and to challenge the competition that often divides us. Similarly, colleagues from Ukraine spoke about the ongoing war, deepening conflicts, and the critical role of women in peacebuilding. We met new allies who are directly involved in supporting women and families, often at great personal risk. Meanwhile, colleagues from Germany highlighted the growing challenges posed by shrinking spaces and the rise of extremist groups. Participants from Armenia were able to amplify their experiences of navigating crises and share the steps being taken to address them.
Despite the shared atmosphere of crisis, the mutual exchange of stories and strategies fostered a sense of solidarity and renewed sensitivity toward ourselves and each other.
Highlights of the Trip
Alongside the Resilience Meeting, we had the chance to participate in a lecture and book presentation by feminist activist Sara Ahmed, hosted by a local feminist organization in Warsaw. Ahmed’s insights on being a “killjoy” feminist resonated deeply, offering a space to connect over shared struggles and hopes within the broader feminist movement. This event also laid the groundwork for inviting Ahmed to Armenia.
To conclude the trip, we joined a walking tour of Warsaw led by a Belarusian activist, who shared stories about feminist realities in the city. This enriching experience strengthened our bonds with colleagues, deepened our understanding of one another’s challenges, and reinforced our commitment to shared goals.
