In the quest for gender equality, the importance of male participation cannot be overstated. It’s heartening to see that 65% of people recognise the pivotal role men play in advancing women’s rights. After all, true equality requires collective action, with men actively supporting and championing the cause alongside women.
However, recent findings reveal a concerning trend: around half of people across 31 countries feel that men are being burdened with excessive expectations to foster gender equality (51%). Additionally, 46% believe that our efforts to promote women’s equality have inadvertently led to discrimination against men.
These statistics underscore the urgency of reevaluating our approach. It’s not about pitting one gender against another or placing undue burdens on anyone. Instead, it’s about fostering a culture of inclusivity where men are valued as partners and beneficiaries in the journey towards Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).
We need to reshape the narrative, emphasising that gender equality benefits everyone. By actively involving and embracing men in our DEI initiatives, we create a more equitable society for all. Together, let’s pave the way for a future where every individual, regardless of gender, can thrive and contribute to a more inclusive world.
Thank you King’s College London and King’s Global Institute for Women’s Leadership for this important research. Read the full research report [here].
GenderEquality MaleAllyship DiversityandInclusion DEI Equalityforall