Femen

Femen is a feminist activist group founded in Ukraine in 2008 by Oksana Shchukina, Oleksandra Shevchenko, and Anna Hutsol. The group is known for its topless protests, where activists often use body paint and slogans to express their political and social messages. These protests have targeted a range of issues, including sexual tourism, religious extremism, political corruption, and patriarchal structures.

The distinctive visual element of Femen's activism is the exposed female torso, which they refer to as "sextremism." They believe this act strips away societal layers of clothing and inhibition, allowing for a more direct and powerful form of protest. The group has gained international attention and has established branches in several countries, though its core operations remain centered in Ukraine and France.

Femen's protests are often provocative and have sometimes led to confrontations with authorities and counter-protesters. The group's methods have been met with both admiration for their boldness and criticism for their perceived sensationalism. Despite varying interpretations of their tactics, Femen's activism has undeniably brought attention to the issues they champion and has sparked discussions about feminism and protest in the public sphere.