The new book by bestselling author Ingrid Brodnig. How misogyny becomes a weapon against democracy: topical, investigative, highly relevant
Threats of violence, digital smear campaigns, malicious image montages - what sounds like the dark fringes of the internet has become bitter everyday life for many female politicians. In her new non-fiction book, Ingrid Brodnig relentlessly exposes how systematic intimidation is intended to push women out of the political public sphere and what this means for our democracy. She has spoken to members of parliament and high-ranking female politicians from Germany and Austria, documents specific attacks and analyzes how digital violence works - often fueled by right-wing networks, the logic of social media platforms and opportunistic media mechanisms.
But Brodnig goes beyond analysis: she shows ways in which those affected can protect themselves - legally, technically and strategically. And she appeals to us all to take responsibility as citizens. Because those who remain silent leave the floor to the loudest. A courageous, intelligent and highly topical book - for all those who do not want to leave democracy to the fear-mongers.
Ingrid Brodnig is an expert on the social impact of digitalization and debate culture. The author and journalist gives talks and workshops and provides tips on how to respond to phenomena such as hate speech and disinformation. Her most recent bestseller was "Einspruch! Countering fake news and conspiracy myths" and "Wider die Verrohung. On the targeted destruction of public debates". Ingrid Brodnig has received numerous awards for her work, including the Bruno Kreisky Special Prize for the Political Book.
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"Feindbild Frau" will be published on 18.02.2026 by Brandstätter Verlag, 208 pages