Haley McEwen

Haley McEwen is a Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Gothenburg's Department of Political Science. She holds a PhD in Sociology from the University of the Witwatersrand, an MPhil in Critical Diversity Studies from the University of Cape Town, and a BA in Social Relations from Michigan State University. Previously, she was a Senior Researcher at the Wits Centre for Diversity Studies. McEwen's research focuses on anti-gender movements, U.S. Christian Right influence in African politics, and the geopolitical dimensions of pro-family discourse. She is a nationally rated researcher by South Africa's NRF and a Senior Fellow at the Far Right Analysis Network.

Her work explores colonial legacies in gender politics, transnational activism, and the intersection of religion, policy, and sexuality. Key areas include analyzing anti-LGBTQ+ campaigns in Africa, decolonizing gender studies, and the impact of global actors on local policies. McEwen has contributed to peer-reviewed journals such as Critical Philosophy of Race and Development Southern Africa, and her writing appears in outlets like The Conversation.

Recent publications include An anti-gender rhizome: unearthing transnational anti-genderism in Africa (2025) and Anti-Gender Politics in East and Southern Africa (2024). She serves as an Associate Editor of the International Journal of Critical Diversity Studies and advocates for academic freedom in contested sociopolitical contexts.

• Education:
  • PhD in Sociology, University of the Witwatersrand
  • MPhil in Critical Diversity Studies, University of Cape Town
  • BA in Social Relations, Michigan State University
• Awards/Affiliations:
  • NRF Rated Researcher (South Africa)
  • Senior Fellow, Far Right Analysis Network
  • Associate Editor, International Journal of Critical Diversity Studies

McEwen’s research bridges critical theory with empirical analysis, emphasizing global South perspectives. Her work critiques how colonial frameworks persist in contemporary gender politics and highlights grassroots resistance strategies. Current projects examine multipolar world dynamics and the role of anti-gender movements in shaping development agendas.