The 25th of November marks the start of 16 days dedicated to ending violence against women and children and to stamp out gender-based violence (GBV).
This is a time to challenge stereotypes about men and women, and rewrite the script. Through meaningful conversations, we can change hearts and minds, creating a safer, more respectful society for all.
- What is consent?
One of the most powerful ways to stop sexual violence is to ensure that everyone understands what consent truly means. Consent is not just ‘yes’ or ‘no’. It is really all about respecting your sexual partner’s choices and only doing what you both are comfortable with. Consent is positive, informed and ongoing. Silence, pressure and coercion are not consent.
The conversation: Everyone has the right to make decisions about their body. Make sure you and your partner are on the same page by talking about and understanding one another’s boundaries and limits.
- Challenge images of manliness
Manliness itself isn’t harmful, but it becomes problematic when it’s equated with aggression, dominance and emotional suppression. The ‘macho man’ image pressures men to believe they must use power to control others.
The conversation: Stereotypes telling boys and men to ‘man up’ can be damaging, pushing them to suppress emotions and equate strength with toughness or violence. This pressure can lead to harmful behaviours and emotional isolation. Everyone – girls and women included – should understand that true strength isn’t about being violent or unfeeling; it’s about resilience, empathy and emotional balance.
- Promote gender equality
At the core of gender-based violence (GBV) is inequality. We need to challenge the idea that one gender is superior to another. When we make it clear that men and women are equal, we can reshape attitudes and behaviours.
The conversation: Start by questioning assumptions. Why are certain roles automatically linked with gender (for example, women cook, and men work on the house)? How do these stereotypes limit us all?
When we all start to challenge certain expectations and create better ways of being together, we can put an end to GBV.
Reference
- Parliament of South Africa
