Not a women's problem...
What does the research say?
Research shows that violence against women is rooted in structural inequalities and misogyny embedded in cultural, social, and institutional frameworks.
Studies by the World Health Organization (WHO), United Nations (UN), and numerous academic institutions have found that gender-based violence, including domestic or family violence and abuse, sexual assault, and harassment, isn't just an isolated behavioral issue but a reflection of broader societal norms, reinforced by unequal power dynamics between men and women.
What behaviour, language or actions are you ignoring?
How does it show up in everyday life?
Cultural & societal norms
Institutional & structural
Cultural & societal norms
Traditional gender roles and expectations often reinforce male dominance and female subordination, creating conditions where violence against women is tolerated, normalized or minimized.
Beliefs that devalue women or view them as less capable, secondary to men, or as property to be controlled significantly increase the likelihood of abusive behaviors to be perpetrated.
Gender Inequality
Institutional & structural
Cultural & societal norms
The WHO and UN identify gender inequality as one of the leading predictors of violence against women. When women have fewer rights, less economic power, and reduced access social and economical resources, violence against women is substantially higher.
Research indicates that men who believe in or endorse patriarchal or hyper-masculine val
The WHO and UN identify gender inequality as one of the leading predictors of violence against women. When women have fewer rights, less economic power, and reduced access social and economical resources, violence against women is substantially higher.
Research indicates that men who believe in or endorse patriarchal or hyper-masculine values are more likely to engage in or excuse violence against women. This suggests a strong link between attitudes that reinforce male authority and the prevalence of gender based violence.
Institutional & structural
Institutional & structural
Institutional & structural
Institutions, including legal and criminal justice systems sometimes operate in a way that reflects biases that fail to protect women adequately. For example, lenient sentencing for perpetrators of domestic violence or societal skepticism toward victims of sexual assault can perpetuate a culture of impunity.
Workplace policies and media, i
Institutions, including legal and criminal justice systems sometimes operate in a way that reflects biases that fail to protect women adequately. For example, lenient sentencing for perpetrators of domestic violence or societal skepticism toward victims of sexual assault can perpetuate a culture of impunity.
Workplace policies and media, including social media, portrayals that uphold sexist stereotypes or tolerate harassment reinforce gender inequalities and contribute to a cultural climate where violence against women is overlooked, glorified, or trivialized.
Intersectionality
Psychological factors
Institutional & structural
Certain groups of women, such as women of color, LGBTQ+ women, and economically disadvantaged women, experience higher rates of violence due to intersecting forms of discrimination. The compounded impact of racial, sexual, and economic marginalization exacerbates vulnerability to violence.
Psychological factors
Psychological factors
Psychological factors
Studies in psychology and sociology have shown that normalization of misogyny and violence through media, social interactions, and our family dynamics can contribute to the conditioning of people to view women as inferior, reinforcing abusive behaviors. Violence, control or abuse is then used as a means to assert control or dominance ove
Studies in psychology and sociology have shown that normalization of misogyny and violence through media, social interactions, and our family dynamics can contribute to the conditioning of people to view women as inferior, reinforcing abusive behaviors. Violence, control or abuse is then used as a means to assert control or dominance over women, especially in societies where aggressive behaviors are seen as markers of masculinity.
How do I Speak Up?
Be an ally; challenge your own thinking
In everyday life, whether at work, out with friends, or online, you may witness moments where women face disrespect or aggression—these might be subtle, like a dismissive remark, or more serious, like direct harassment. These instances are often dismissed, downplayed, or overlooked. However, being an ally and taking action, even in small ways, can make a profound difference. Here’s how you can play an active role in creating safer, more respectful environments for everyone.
1. Recognize Microaggressions and Misogyny
Microaggressions are often small, and often seem insignificant actions or comments but they usually reflect deeper stereotypes or prejudices. Common examples include dismissing a woman’s opinion, “joking” about a woman’s ability, or making inappropriate comments on appearance. Understanding and recognizing these behaviors for what they are—the seeds of discrimination—helps you become aware of the ways problematic thinking and behaviours show up.
Ask yourself:
- Would this comment or action make a difference if the gender roles were reversed?
- Is this joke or remark based on stereotypes about women?
Awareness is the first step to standing up for what’s right.
2. Use Your Voice
When witnessing disrespectful or harmful behavior, speaking up can set an example and prevent escalation. You don’t need to be confrontational; a calm, respectful response is often enough. For example:
- Acknowledge the Issue: “I don’t think that’s appropriate.”
- Offer Support: “I noticed that comment didn’t sit well. Are you okay?”
- Redirect the Conversation: “Let’s bring it back to the point she was making.”
These responses not only show support but also signal to others that certain behaviors won’t go unchecked.
3. Don’t Be Afraid to Call It Out
While some situations can be handled subtly, others require a firm stance. If a behavior is clearly harmful or abusive, especially if it’s continuous, standing up becomes a responsibility. You don’t have to be confrontational, but it’s essential to be clear. Let the person know the behavior isn’t acceptable, or find a way to involve a higher authority if necessary.
Examples:
- “That comment doesn’t belong in this conversation.”
- “I don’t think anyone here appreciates remarks like that.”
This approach shows others, especially women, that you’re an ally, making them feel safer and respected.
4. Support Women’s Voices
Women are often interrupted, ignored, or downplayed. Actively giving them the floor can be a simple but powerful form of support. When you notice this happening, consider saying:
- “I think she was making a point. Let’s hear her out.”
- “Great idea; let’s expand on what she said.”
Respecting and highlighting women’s voices helps combat the subtle silencing often experienced.
5. Educate Yourself and Others
Self-education is crucial. Reading about the experiences women face, particularly societal expectations, workplace experiences, microaggressions. This deepens your understanding, and the more you know, the more comfortable you'll feel stepping up and speaking up. Discussing these issues with friends, colleagues and family members can help to encourage a culture of respect and allyship.
6. Set an Example
As an ally, your actions have a ripple effect. By consistently showing respect, offering support, and standing against harmful behavior, you create a norm that others will follow. Modeling positive behavior isn’t always easy, but your actions can influence those around you, setting a precedent for others to be allies as well.
7. Remember: Silence Is Complicit
