Authorities warn of rising misogyny on social media

Misogyny is playing an increasingly important role in spreading extremist ideologies online, Austria’s Office for the Protection of the Constitution and the Extremism Prevention Office in Styria warned, according to ORF. They said young people in particular are increasingly encountering such content on social networks.

Right-wing extremist incidents in Austria rose by almost 34 percent last year, while incidents linked to Islamist extremism increased by just over 42 percent. The Office for the Protection of the Constitution said different extremist movements were reaching people through a shared theme: misogynistic ideas about gender roles.

“Misogyny is very popular as a bridge narrative among extremist movements because it acts as a glue for building a following,” said Daniela Grabovac of the Extremism Prevention Office in Styria. She cited messages calling for women to return to the home, care for children and stay out of leadership positions.

Such messages are often spread through memes and seemingly harmless posts. The authorities said it was particularly concerning that these gender roles had already become established among many young people. So-called tradwives are also gaining millions of followers on social networks by promoting a traditional model in which men provide for the family while women stay at home.

Jörg Leichtfried, state secretary for the protection of the constitution, said the phenomenon was attacking democracy, liberal democratic achievements and feminism. He called for action against it.

Age restrictions for social media are planned. Leichtfried also called for tighter controls on algorithms and more prevention work, questioning financial cuts in the area on security grounds.