Many activists believe that if the work of preventing GBV is about influencing the nature of relationships between women and men, then men must be engaged as allies in the work. There is a need for clarity of intent and approach when working with men to avoid marginalizing women, especially on an issue where they need to be the central protagonists. The active involvement of men as allies in GBV prevention is crucial if we are to see real and meaningful change in the lives of women. This work needs to be approached carefully with clear parameters that men are responsible for their violence. Yet bridges need to be built using benefits-based approaches that reach out to men in constructive, non-confrontational ways. Often, men working with other men is an effective strategy but women's concerns, safety and rights need to remain at the fore.

On this page you will find some examples of Member Organization's program approaches to working with men.

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Adapt, South Africa
Programme description of Adapt's community-based efforts to work with men. Special emphasis on Adapt's Community Empowerment Model and activities for men that promote healing. Excerpt from Preventing GBV in the Horn, East and Southern Africa: A Regional Dialogue (2004).    [view]

A Concept Paper on Men for Gender, Equality Now (MEGEN) African Women’s Development and Communication Network (FEMNET) [view]

Men's Travelling Conference
FEMNET, Kenya. A report on a partnership-building event involving men's groups from several African countries to raise awareness and promote male involvement in GBV prevention (2003).  [view]

Men’s Traveling Conference Concept, African Women’s Development and Communication Network (FEMNET) [view]

Malawi Human Rights Resource Center, Malawi
Programme description of MHRRC's various activities spearheaded by the Men's Network against GBV. Special emphasis on how to construct GBV as a community problem. Excerpt from Preventing GBV in the Horn, East and Southern Africa: A Regional Dialogue (2004).   [view]

Planned Parenthood Association of South Africa (PPASA)
Programme description of Men as Partners, a collaborative project between PPASA and EngenderHealth. Special emphasis on the use of an interpersonal approach to affect change. Excerpt from Preventing GBV in the Horn, East and Southern Africa: A Regional Dialogue (2004).    [view]