The B4 Movement or How Women Are Redefining Power
The Revolutionary Power of Women's Non-Participation
Lysistrata, Aristophanes' daring comedy from 411 BCE, introduces us to a sharp-witted Athenian woman with an audacious plan to end the prolonged war between Athens and Sparta. Tired of the endless conflict, Lysistrata rallies the women of Greece—including those from Sparta—and persuades them to wield an unexpected weapon: abstinence. No sex until peace prevails.
The battle of wills that follows is equal parts hilarious and revealing, as men, frustrated and bewildered, struggle to resist their own desires while their wives stand firm in their resolve. And in the end? Lysistrata wins. The message is clear: sometimes, the real power lies not in confrontation but in collective, determined defiance.
Fast forward to the 21st century, and echoes of this ancient play resound in unexpected places—like the modern B4 women's movement in South Korea.
The Unconventional Weapon of Choice: Refusal
The movement's name derives from four Korean terms: bihon (no marriage), biyeonae (no dating), bichulsan (no childbirth), and bisekseu (no sexual relations), — essentially pointing out the decision of women to step away from the traditional societal expectations imposed on them. The movement’s strategy is deceptively simple yet profoundly effective: refusal. By choosing to opt out of these traditional pathways—dating, marriage, childbirth and sexual relations - women are sending a strong message. They refuse to participate in what they see as an unequal contract, where societal benefits are disproportionately skewed in favour of men, leaving women with the bulk of domestic responsibilities and societal pressures. This choice, much like the sex strike in Aristophanes’ "Lysistrata," harnesses the power of collective non-cooperation.
In South Korea, the B4 movement emerges as a bold response to a society deeply rooted in Confucian values, where women have traditionally been expected to be subordinate to men, including fathers, husbands, and sons, and prioritize family obligations over personal ambitions, often at the cost of their careers, independence, and well-being. These expectations persisted despite modern advancements and the nation’s fast-paced economic development, creating a paradox where economic modernisation coexists with traditional gender roles.
This phenomenon isn't unique to South Korea. In Greece, where I grew up, similar expectations have traditionally placed family duties above personal aspirations for women. Despite legal advancements toward gender equality, traditional gender roles persist, with women shouldering most household responsibilities. A recent survey revealed that Greek women spend an average of 282 minutes daily on domestic tasks, compared to just 59 minutes for men, marking the highest disparity in Europe.
Enduring expectations have often hindered women's career progression and personal development. Although attitudes are slowly shifting in many places of the world, with younger generations pushing for a more equal distribution of domestic and family responsibilities, it often requires careful planning, strong support systems, and the courage to defy traditional norms.
Speaking from personal experience, I can say with certainty that breaking free from traditional norms is far easier said than done. Challenging entrenched norms and defying deep-rooted family and societal traditions and expectations isn't just a matter of personal resolve; it comes with significant repercussions. Women who choose this path face a variety of pressures, resistance, judgment, criticism, and isolation. Yet, it is precisely this courage to push boundaries that serves as a catalyst for change, even when the cost is unfairly shouldered by those daring to lead the way.
The Modern Implications of Non-Participation
The B4 movement is not without its critics. Some argue that opting out of traditional roles does not fix underlying societal issues; instead, it sidesteps them. Others worry about the potential long-term demographic implications, particularly in a country already grappling with low birth rates and an ageing population. Yet, these concerns often miss the broader point: B4 is less about abandoning relationships altogether and more about choosing relationships and life paths that are equitable, fulfilling, and free from coercive expectations.
What makes the movement particularly compelling is its resonance beyond Korea’s borders. Around the world, women are re-evaluating traditional expectations and questioning whether systems designed without their full participation are worth maintaining. As research shows, the B4 movement represents the universal desire for self-determination and the freedom to live life authentically, even if it means challenging long-held norms and redefining cultural values.
Indeed, the world is witnessing a dramatic shift in the institution of marriage. In fact, 89% of the global population resides in nations where marriage rates are steadily declining. More women are stepping away from the altar, driven by a complex tapestry of reasons. Infidelity tops the list, followed closely by the expanding horizons of career opportunities and the freedom that comes with independence. In the Caribbean for example, Barbadian women exemplify this movement. Many, particularly those who have experienced divorce, despite the pressure, opt against remarriage. Their reasons? A mix of hard-learned lessons on infidelity and a newly embraced thirst for autonomy. This shift marks a redefinition of what fulfilment and stability mean for modern women, as the traditional vows of "I do" echo fainter in a world of new possibilities.
The Surge of the B4 Movement in the United States
In the aftermath of the 2024 U.S. election, a significant shift in the political landscape has triggered an increase in hate speech and harassment against women, both online and in public spaces. Phrases like "Your body, my choice" have been used to intimidate and threaten women, reflecting a surge in sexist behaviour.
The first term of the soon-to-be Oval Office resident saw the appointment of conservative Supreme Court justices, leading to the overturning of Roe v. Wade. Concerns are now mounting over the implications of a second term and whether this could bring further restrictions, including potential national abortion bans and limitations on medication abortions.
In response, the B4 movement is gaining traction nationwide in the United States as a symbol of resistance, especially in urban areas where active feminist communities have seen more pronounced participation. The rapid spread of the movement can be largely attributed to the influence of social media platforms, particularly TikTok and Instagram. These platforms have played a significant role in disseminating information about the movement, leading to a broader discussion on women's autonomy and resistance to patriarchal structures.
If Lysistrata’s satirical narrative taught us anything, it is that change often starts when those expected to comply choose to withhold and resist.
Sources:
Greece, household chores remain the responsibility of women more than anywhere else in Europe https://www.lemonde.fr/en/international/article/2024/06/14/in-greece-household-chores-remain-the-responsibility-of-women-more-than-anywhere-else-in-europe_6674755_4.html
“Your body, my choice”: The post-election attack line, explained | Vox
Book: Opting Out. Women Messing with Marriage around the World. Edited by Joanna Davidson and Dinah Hannaford