The fight against gender-based violence (GBV) is often seen as a battle led by women, for women. Yet, men have a crucial role to play in this social revolution. Positive masculinity, an emerging concept that redefines what it means to be a man in contemporary society, stands today as an essential tool for building a future free of violence. In Africa, where cultural and social dynamics are complex, this approach could be a decisive lever in combating GBV.
What is Positive Masculinity?
Positive masculinity does not seek to pit genders against each other but rather to redefine gender norms by promoting masculine behaviors rooted in respect, equality, and non-violence. Unlike toxic masculinity, which traps men in oppressive stereotypes, it encourages values such as empathy, collaboration, and responsibility.
In African societies, where men are often expected to embody strength, authority, and dominance, manifestations of toxic masculinity are numerous. For example, men are frequently told, “A man doesn’t cry,” “Man up and get over it,” or “A real man never lets anyone walk all over him.” Such phrases push men to suppress their emotions and prioritize aggressive behavior to assert their masculinity. Similarly, the refusal to take on domestic or parenting responsibilities, justified by ideas such as “Housework is for women,” reflects this narrow view of masculinity.
Positive masculinity, on the other hand, promotes attitudes that help men redefine their roles—not by giving up their identity but by freeing themselves from harmful expectations that prevent them from building harmonious, egalitarian relationships.
Toxic Masculinity and Gender-Based Violence: A Vicious Cycle
Toxic masculinity is fueled by behaviors and beliefs that glorify domination, violence, and control, perpetuating GBV. These harmful gender norms encourage men to assert themselves as figures of authority through force or fear, often at the expense of women. This is seen in acts of physical, psychological, or sexual violence, but also in everyday attitudes. For example, a man might say, “A man needs to show who’s in charge” or “Never let a woman dominate you,” reinforcing unequal power dynamics.
This toxicity doesn’t just harm women; it also traps men in destructive behaviors. Men often refuse to seek help when needed, claiming, “A man doesn’t complain.” Likewise, the pressure to prove their manhood through sexual conquests, reinforced by comments like “How many girlfriends have you had? You need to boost that number!” pushes them toward irresponsible or disrespectful attitudes toward women.
This vicious cycle—where toxic masculinity fuels GBV while keeping men in a state of constant tension—can be broken through the adoption of positive masculinity. Positive masculinity encourages men to view strength not as a capacity to dominate but as an ability to build balanced relationships and handle conflicts non-violently.
Men as Allies in the Fight Against GBV
To eradicate GBV, it is essential to involve men, not as bystanders but as active agents of change. Here are some ways to promote positive masculinity and make it an effective tool in the fight:
- Education and Awareness from an Early Age
Schools and communities must teach boys that strength lies not in domination but in the ability to respect others and manage conflicts non-violently. This includes programs that dismantle gender stereotypes and highlight positive male role models. - Inspiring Male Role Models
Influential men—traditional leaders, artists, religious or political figures—can play a key role by embodying the values of positive masculinity. Their voices and actions are often more likely to resonate with younger generations. - Gender Dialogue
Encouraging open conversations between men and women about gender issues helps break taboos and foster mutual understanding. Such spaces allow men to see how their behavior might perpetuate inequalities and violence. - Strengthening Public Policies
Governments must support initiatives that promote equality and positive masculinity. This includes implementing strict laws against GBV and launching awareness campaigns that reach both urban and rural areas.
A Future Without Violence Is Possible
Positive masculinity offers a vision of a future where men and women collaborate to build healthy, equal, and prosperous communities. While men are often seen as part of the problem in the fight against GBV, they can just as easily become an essential part of the solution.
By embracing a masculinity free from toxic stereotypes, Africa can pave a new path where gender is no longer a barrier but a strength. It is time for men, alongside women, to fully commit to this social revolution. Together, we can make GBV a relic of the past.