This article is based on the Editorial: Transforming ‘men’-talities, redefining masculinity that appeared in the Hindu.
Violence against women is a global issue. And it is often perpetrated by men but it is men who can be key agents of change. To end this violence, we need to redefine masculinity and move away from traditional ideas of strength and control to a culture of equality and empathy. Engaging men in challenging gender norms is crucial for healthier relationships and a safer world. UNESCO's Transforming MENtalities initiative and successful programs in India such as Mardon Wali Baat and GEMS, are helping men embrace positive masculinity. Role models, including public figures are vital in promoting gender equality. Ultimately, men’s active participation in rejecting violence and harmful stereotypes is essential for achieving true gender equality.
As another International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women passes by (November 25), it’s clear that despite years of advocacy, one in three women worldwide has faced violence from men. While men are often the perpetrators, they can also be key agents of change. To stop violence against women, we must change the way men think about masculinity. Traditional ideas that associate strength, aggression and control with being a man must be replaced by a culture of equality, empathy and non-violence.
Violence against women is often seen as "women’s issue". But it is really a men’s issue too. From a young age, boys are taught that being strong means being dominant. Also, there are wrong notions--like showing emotions is weak and controlling others is a way to protect their status. These beliefs not only harm women but they also limit emotional well-being of men and relationships. So, changing these ideas is important for healthier relationships and a safer world for everyone.
In recent years, the role of men and masculinities has become a key topic in the development sector. Research and grassroots efforts show that engaging men is quite essential in challenging outdated gender norms and promoting gender equality. More and more men are stepping up to change how they think about themselves and their roles in society.
UNESCO’s Transforming MENtalities initiative encourages men to support gender equality plus also actively work towards it. By challenging rigid ideas of masculinity, this initiative helps men become advocates for gender equality. As we approach Agenda 2030, which calls for a more equal world, UNESCO, in partnership with the International Center for Research on Women (ICRW), has released a report, “Engaging Men and Boys: A Report on Pathways to Gender Equality in India”. The report highlights 10 innovative programs in India that engage men and boys in addressing gender inequality.
These programs create spaces for discussions that challenge traditional ideas of masculinity and encourage men to embrace more inclusive and respectful attitudes. By focusing on education, open dialogue and community involvement, these programs empower men to become champions of gender equality within their families and communities.
For example, the Mardon Wali Baat (A man’s thing) program, created by The YP Foundation, uses storytelling and social media to engage young men in conversations about positive masculinity. Similarly, the Gender Equity Movement in Schools (GEMS) helps boys see the harm of toxic masculinity and adopt more balanced views on gender.
Programs like ‘Dekh Rekh (caring for each other) and ‘Hamari Shaadi (our marriage)’ encourage men to participate in family life, such as helping with nutrition and household planning. These small actions challenge gender bias and show that men and boys can actively contribute to gender equality in their everyday lives.
For change to happen, positive role models are important. Men and boys need examples of people who show respect, share household responsibilities, reject violence, and practice empathy. Public figures can play a huge role in normalizing gender equality. For instance, a well-known Indian cricketer recently sparked national conversation by publicly supporting paternity leave, showing how shared responsibility can redefine what it means to be a man.
True gender equality requires active participation of men as well. By rejecting violence, challenging harmful stereotypes and reflecting on their own roles in society, men can help build a more equitable world for everyone.
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