What does climate have to do with women? On the occasion of its 25th anniversary, filia.die frauenstiftung is delighted to welcome Prof. Dr. Maja Göpel. The political economist is a sustainability expert and one of the leading voices on climate and transformation. She tells us why climate protection and feminism must be considered together, what gives her courage, and what she hopes for filia now.

Dear Ms. Göpel, why is feminism good for everyone?

Because feminism is a regenerative alternative to extractive patriarchy and thus works to shift from relationships of dominance to relationships based on partnership—regardless of my gender.

What connection do you see between intersectional feminism and climate protection?

Exploitative systems are characterized by structural violence—whether directed at women, vulnerable groups, or nature and its living beings. As long as technological and mechanistic strategies are found to satisfy the needs of the powerful, dignity, respect, and humility in the face of one’s own fallibility fade into the background. Yet it is precisely these values that define living systems; they ensure co-evolutionary development, safety, and health. That is why the term “system change” fits very well for me when it comes to the question of how we can address these two challenges: we need to update our ways of interacting, and then we can correct multiple misalignments at once.

Prof. Dr. Maja Göpel, what gives you courage?

The conversations in which one question takes center stage and is taken seriously: What is this actually all about? That’s when common ground emerges, along with a shared desire for a secure future and a healthy natural environment.

What would you like to wish filia, Germany’s largest feminist foundation, for its 25th anniversary?

Stay strong! It’s truly a showdown right now, and we need strong alliances to confront this right-wing authoritarian shitshow with a clear “No—and”: No, we won’t roll back our achievements—and there’s a place for you, too, in the future we stand for.

Thank you very much for your time and encouragement Prof. Dr. Maja Göpel! The interview took place as part of filias’ anniversary campaign “Sparks of Courage”, in which we celebrate all those who advocate for and promote equality, justice, and freedom from violence. With this in mind, we cordially invite you to continue spreading courage and inspiring others—because now is the time to support the feminist movement.

What environmental projects does filia support?

For example, filia supports several groups in Brandenburg that are active in agriculture and advocate for food sovereignty. They empower FLINTA*, BIPoC, queer, disabled, and migrant people, who often cannot afford organic food and lack reliable access to rural eastern Germany. They preserve indigenous farming methods, create educational opportunities, and build a network for community-oriented agricultural groups.

You can learn more about our grantees in Germany here.

Filia also supports international initiatives in the areas of climate protection and climate justice. The Osoba Odra group—composed of environmental activists, scientists, and residents in the border region—aims to protect the Oder River from further disasters by seeking to grant the river its own legal personality. A success here would be groundbreaking for environmental protection. And it shows that women and queer people have perspectives and solutions that are constructive and holistic—and that should be given much greater consideration in political decision-making.

“The goal is to change the way we think about, talk about, and perceive the river and the surrounding natural environment. This shift means no longer viewing nature as a resource or a dumping ground, but rather as a partner and a habitat,” the Polish alliance urges. You can read more about this soon on our blog.