While gender-based violence (GBV) affects people of all genders, the truth is that it often stems from negative, harmful norms. Whether it is through physical aggression or casual control, many of the behaviors we are discussing are taught to children (especially boys) from a young age, encouraging them to ignore or accept whatever is happening. 

But the good news is that change is possible. And it starts with men and boys taking charge and challenging societal norms. In this blog we’ll break down:

• How Gender-based violence is fueled by toxic masculinity. 
• What men can do to be real allies. 
• Initiatives supporting men in the fight against violence. 

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So, What Is Toxic Masculinity—and Why Does It Matter?

Let’s be clear: the issue is not masculinity per se. The harmful standards surrounding what it means to “be a man”—such as “boys don’t cry,” “be the boss,” or “never show your weakness”—are known as toxic masculinity. These beliefs have the potential to seriously hurt both the men who hold them and others. Here are some examples of how it manifests:

• Entitlement: The idea that men ought to have authority over women’s time, bodies, or decisions. That kind of thinking can fuel everything from unwanted comments to domestic violence. 
• Bottled-up Emotions: A lot of boys learn to suppress their feelings as they grow up. And when feelings like sadness or insecurity are buried, they can come out as anger or aggression later on. 
• Power Imbalance: In some places, men are expected to lead while women are expected to follow. These dynamics can create relationships where control and even abuse become normalized. 

Not only does toxic masculinity harm women and marginalized people—it also limits men from challenging it. 

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How Can Men Be Part of the Solution?

Being an ally isn’t about having all the answers. It all comes down to being honest, taking accountability, and making sure your behavior reflects the kind of world you want to live in. Here’s where to begin:

1. Call Out: Make sure you don’t let street harassment or sexist jokes slide away, even if they are said by a friend, as it can have a significant impact on someone else. 
2. Listen to Survivors: When someone shares their experience, your job isn’t to question it—it’s to listen. That alone is powerful, and sometimes more than enough. 
3. Talk to Other Men: Honest discussions with friends, brothers, and colleagues are where real talk begins. This shows how different opinions form and what can be changed to make it better. 
4. Encourage Women-led Movements: Supporting individuals who are directly impacted is another aspect of being an ally. It entails supporting their causes, elevating their voices, and standing by them. 

Every action matters—from having a conversation to just making a better choice in the moment. Everything adds up. 

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Initiatives That Help Men Make a Difference

Across the world, an increasing number of programs are helping men step into their role as change-makers when it comes to fighting and eradicating GBV. Workshops and initiatives at school ensure that these sessions educate young men about consent, gender equality, and healthy relationships before their actions become habits. 

Likewise, digital resources can come in handy when dealing with such situations. From videos to conversation guides, there’s a growing collection of tools designed specifically to help men get more involved in meaningful ways. Apps like Safecity also allows their users to get access to resources for support and find information on how to be an active ally. 

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FAQ

Can men be survivors of GBV too?

Yes—GBV can affect anyone, regardless of gender. Every survivor deserves to be heard and supported.

Does it really make a difference to call out a friend?

It does. Peer influence is powerful. One voice can spark change in someone else’s mindset or behavior.

Do I need to be an expert to get involved?

Not at all. Just being willing to learn, listen, and grow is enough to make a difference.

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Ready to Take That First Step?

Ending Gender-based violence means building a more respectful, fair, and compassionate world. A world where one doesn’t get discriminated against because of their gender or sexuality and a place where men and boys play a vital part in combating violence.