Engaging Men to End Violence Against Women 
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Source: The post Engaging Men to End Violence Against Women has been created, based on the article “Transforming ‘men’-talities, redefining masculinity” published in “The Hindu” on 14th January 2025 

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper1-Society-Social empowerment 

Context: The article highlights the need to engage men in ending violence against women by challenging harmful masculinity norms. It discusses UNESCO’s Transforming MENtalities initiative and a report documenting Indian programmes promoting equality, empathy, and non-violence through education and dialogues. 

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Why is violence against women a “men’s issue”? 

  1. Men as Perpetrators and Agents of Change: Nearly one in three women globally face violence from men, highlighting men’s role in both perpetuating and addressing the issue.
  2. Harmful Masculinity Norms: Boys are conditioned to equate strength with dominance and see emotions as weakness. This leads to aggressive behaviors and limits healthy relationships.
  3. Impact on Men’s Lives: Toxic masculinity traps men in cycles of suppressed emotions and aggressive behaviors, affecting their relationships and personal growth.

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What does UNESCO’s report on India highlight? 

  1. UNESCO’s Transforming MENtalities initiative emphasizes engaging men as active participants in promoting gender equality.
  2. The report, Engaging Men and Boys: Pathways to Gender Equality in India, documents 10 pioneering programmes addressing gender inequality. These programmes encourage dialogues to challenge traditional gender norms and promote positive masculinities.
  3. Some of the interventions are:
  • Mardon Wali Baat uses storytelling and social media to help young men critically examine limiting narratives, promoting values like respect and equality.
  • Gender Equity Movement in Schools (GEMS) engages boys in Rajasthan through interactive activities. One boy stated, “Boys should also work at home.”
  • Initiatives like Dekh Rekh and Hamari Shaadi tackle everyday gender bias by encouraging men to participate in family nutrition and planning.

What role do role models play? 

  1. Positive male role models who share caregiving duties, reject violence, and show empathy inspire change. 
  2. Public figures like a famous Indian cricketer, who took paternity leave, promote shared responsibilities and equitable relationships.

What is the way forward? 

Men must reject harmful stereotypes and actively contribute to gender equality. By questioning patriarchal privileges and embracing equality, men can help build a world free from violence where everyone thrives. Let us celebrate men transforming mentalities and championing equality. 

Question for practice: 

Examine how engaging men and boys in challenging harmful masculinity norms can contribute to ending violence against women. 


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