Addressing violence against Women: A call for societal change

May marks a significant milestone – Family and Domestic Violence Prevention Month. This is a month that needs more than words. This is a month to take action. Violence against women is a pervasive issue that continues to plague societies worldwide. Despite efforts to combat it, the root causes often remain unaddressed, perpetuating a cycle of harm and inequality. In our latest podcast discussion, Enmasse Managing Director Helena Kuo is joined by our experts Fiona Parkinson and Trent Larkman, who together explore the complexities of this issue, offering insights into its systemic nature and suggesting pathways towards meaningful change.

Recognising patriarchal structures:
One of the central themes of the conversation is the role of patriarchal structures in perpetuating violence against women. These structures not only uphold gender inequality but also teach men that they are entitled to dominance and control over others. By framing violence against women as a byproduct of patriarchy, they challenge the notion that it is solely a women's issue, highlighting the need for men to actively engage in dismantling these harmful norms. It is noted that this is about some men, not all men, but all men can contribute to prevention.

Addressing root causes:
The conversation also looks at the influence of social media and societal norms on young men, with concerns raised about the rise of negative influences like Andrew Tate, highlighting the importance of addressing the root causes of violent behavior, including emotional suffocation and the reinforcement of traditional gender roles. By equipping young men with the tools to navigate their emotions healthily, we can mitigate the risk of them resorting to anger and violence.

Practical steps for change:
The team shares personal anecdotes about challenging traditional gender stereotypes and emphasises the role of parenting in shaping boys' attitudes towards masculinity. They also offer practical advice on how to support individuals experiencing violence, stressing the importance of initiating conversations with care and providing non-judgmental support. They also discuss how engaging men in the conversation and acknowledging that this not a women’s issue but an issue for all members of society, and that we all have a role to play in prevention. The challenge is how we can adapt our everyday behaviour and role modelling to influence change. By listening actively and assisting in accessing support services, individuals can play a crucial role in breaking the cycle of violence.

The podcast discussion underscores the urgent need for societal change to address violence against women effectively, by challenging societal norms, and supporting individuals affected by violence.

At Enmasse, we are committed to creating workplaces that help prevent domestic and family violence. For more information about our training programs and resources, including webinars on understanding and preventing domestic and family violence, click here or contact us.

If you or someone you know is being subjected to domestic or family violence, it's important to seek help. In the UK, you can call the Respect helpline on 0808 802 4040 or email helpline@womensaid.org.uk and staff will reply within 5 working days. In Australia, organisations like 1800 RESPECT, Lifeline (13 11 14) or No to Violence (Men’s referral service) 1300 766 491 can offer help and support.