HOW many women in your life are affected by gender-based violence — your mother, sister, partner, or friend? What if we all took responsibility to protect them? Every day, millions of women live in fear — fear of physical abuse, emotional manipulation, and harassment. Gender-based violence is a silent epidemic, often hidden behind closed doors or disguised as cultural norms. What’s often ignored is that, in many cases, the perpetrators are the very men in their lives — partners, family members, or strangers. If we are serious about eradicating GBV, men must not only be held accountable for their actions but must actively participate in the solution. Without their direct involvement, the fight against GBV will remain incomplete.
At its core, GBV is fuelled by toxic masculinity — a set of cultural norms that associates manhood with dominance, control, and aggression. These narrow definitions of masculinity harm women, but they also limit men. Men are often taught to suppress their emotions, avoid vulnerability, and assert power. These norms tell men that real strength lies in aggression, and anything softer is a sign of weakness. By rejecting these outdated ideas of manhood, men can help redefine masculinity in a way that empowers everyone. Real strength lies in compassion, respect, and equality. When men model these values, they become catalysts for change, helping to shift society’s broader attitude toward violence.
Men’s involvement begins with listening to and supporting survivors of GBV. For too long, the burden of dealing with abuse has fallen entirely on the survivors, who are often dismissed or blamed when they seek help. Men can change this narrative by standing in solidarity with survivors, providing emotional support, and amplifying their voices. Supporting survivors is not just about sympathy; it’s about being actively present in their fight for justice. Men can help survivors access resources like legal and medical assistance, ensuring they are believed and treated with respect. This kind of active, empathetic support is crucial to dismantling the stigma that surrounds GBV.
However, men’s influence extends far beyond individual interactions with survivors. Peer groups — whether in the workplace, sports, or social settings — hold tremendous power in shaping attitudes. When a man challenges a sexist joke or calls out harmful behaviour, he sends a powerful message that GBV is never acceptable. By speaking out in these moments, men can shift the cultural narrative. This isn’t about confrontation but about setting a new standard of respect. Every time a man intervenes, it creates a ripple effect that can change the behaviour of those around him. Men have the power to reshape attitudes by normalising respect and equality, making it clear that GBV is never acceptable.
Perhaps the most crucial role men can play is in preventing violence before it begins. GBV doesn’t start with physical violence — it starts with control, manipulation, and the reinforcement of harmful gender norms. Men must be vigilant in identifying the early signs of abuse, whether in relationships or in their own behavior. Men have the ability and responsibility to intervene when they see unhealthy dynamics developing. Whether it’s calling out disrespectful behaviour or stepping in to prevent harassment, men must act when they see injustice. By intervening early, they can stop violence before it escalates. Additionally, men should support programmes that help rehabilitate perpetrators, teaching them to understand the root causes of their actions and offering them the tools they need to change.
Men also have a significant role to play in modelling healthy relationships. In their homes and with their partners, men can practice equality, respect, and open communication. Healthy relationships are built on mutual support, not dominance. Men who share domestic responsibilities, communicate openly, and resolve conflicts without resorting to anger or violence set an example that challenges traditional gender roles. When men model healthy relationships in their personal lives, they send a powerful message to those around them. This isn’t just about private relationships; it’s about creating a culture of respect that can spread to every corner of society.
Furthermore, men must advocate for educational reforms that teach boys and young men about respect, consent, and emotional intelligence. Programmes that engage young men in these discussions can help prevent harmful behaviours from taking root in the first place. It’s crucial to teach boys that vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness, and that respect and equality are the foundations of any relationship. Men have a responsibility to support these programmes and engage with the next generation to ensure that the cycle of violence does not continue.
The challenge of ending GBV is not just about women; it’s about all of us. Men who take action to address GBV are not just contributing to a safer world for women — they are freeing themselves from the toxic constraints of traditional masculinity. Men benefit when they embrace vulnerability, empathy, and mutual respect. They break free from the narrow definitions of manhood that limit emotional expression and healthy relationships. When men reject harmful stereotypes and take active steps to prevent violence, they create a world where both women and men can thrive, free from violence and fear.
Now is the time for change. Men must no longer stand on the sidelines in the fight against gender-based violence. The responsibility to end GBV lies with all of us, and men must take an active role in challenging harmful behaviours, supporting survivors, and advocating for systemic change. Every action, whether big or small, plays a crucial part in dismantling the toxic masculinity that fuels violence. By embracing equality, empathy, and respect, men can help shape a society where both women and men thrive, free from violence and fear.
The path to a safer world begins with each of us. Speak out, take action, and make a difference today.
Ìý
Zaziratul Zannat is a public health scholar and humanitarian aid practitioner in an international non-profit organisation based in South Asia.
