When discussions about violence against women arise, the focus often centers on reacting to abuse after it occurs. However, prevention is just as crucial, and men play a vital role in stopping violence before it starts. In Sri Lanka, getting men involved as allies, role models, and active participants in community efforts is key to changing harmful norms and reducing gender-based violence.
Why Men’s Involvement Matters
Violence against women in Sri Lanka, similar to many societies, stems from strict gender norms and patriarchal values that shape attitudes and behaviors from an early age. These norms often portray men as dominant and women as subordinate, contributing to abusive behaviors and the acceptance of abuse.
Research indicates that young, educated Sri Lankan men recognize both traditional gender roles and modern ideas of equality. They generally reject violence but realize that patriarchal views and social acceptance allow abuse to continue.
This disconnect between belief and action underscores the need to actively involve men in prevention efforts rather than assuming change will occur naturally.
How Men Can Lead Change at Home and in Communities
1. Challenging Traditional Masculinity Norms
Traditional expectations, like controlling women’s movement or asserting authority as a sign of manhood, can reinforce harmful behaviors. Sri Lankan men in attitude studies identified these norms as part of the issue and suggested educating boys and girls about equal roles.
Breaking down these outdated beliefs through conversation, family education, and early lessons can help boys grow into respectful and supportive adults.
2. Being Active Allies in Prevention Programs
Community and national efforts increasingly involve men as agents of change. Campaigns in Sri Lanka have mobilized thousands of youths and adults, including men, to challenge attitudes and raise awareness.
Programs run by organizations like the British Council in Sri Lanka engage men and boys in discussions and community projects focused on addressing violence against women and girls, recognizing that male involvement is essential for lasting change.
3. Promoting Respectful Relationships Through Education
Men can actively support educational initiatives that teach:
– Gender equality in schools and community centers
– Life skills that focus on respect, communication, and emotional intelligence
– Premarital counseling that encourages mutual responsibility and understanding
In qualitative research on male attitudes, future leaders suggested that both parents should raise boys and girls equally, and that life skills education can help prevent violence.
4. Speaking Up Against Violence in Daily Life
Everyday interactions matter. When men step in, even in small ways, to stop sexist jokes, harassment, or controlling behavior, they contribute to changing social norms. This includes calling out peers, supporting victims, and modeling respectful behavior in public and private settings.
Faith leaders and male community figures can also leverage their influence to promote non-violence and respectful relationships, helping reshape cultural expectations.
5. Supporting National Policies and Action Plans
Sri Lanka’s Policy Framework and Multi-Sectoral National Action Plan to Address Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) 2024–2028 stresses the involvement of all genders in prevention efforts and aims for a violence-free life for all.
Men’s participation in supporting legal reform, awareness initiatives, and enforcement of protections against domestic and gender-based violence sends a strong message about shared responsibility.
Why This Matters Now
Violence against women does not occur in isolation; it connects to social norms, education systems, family life, and community behaviors. When men become active partners in prevention, the impact is significant:
– Reduced domestic abuse and harassment
– Stronger support networks for victims
– Healthier workplaces and public spaces
– More respectful relationships based on equality
Prevention is not just a woman’s issue; it affects families, communities, and the nation as a whole.
A Call to Men Everywhere in Sri Lanka
Violence against women is a shared challenge, and finding solutions requires combined efforts. Sri Lankan men can make a difference by:
– Educating themselves and others about gender equality
– Modeling respectful behavior in their families and workplaces
– Supporting prevention programs in schools and communities
– Speaking out against abuse instead of staying silent
When men step up as allies and leaders of change, Sri Lanka moves closer to a society where all women feel safe, respected, and empowered.
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