Men and Boys Including Fathers as Allies in Ending Gender-Based Violence
ENWS Highlights the Critical Role of Male Engagement and Positive Fatherhood in GBV Prevention
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — The Ethiopia Network of Women Shelters (ENWS) is calling for increased engagement of men and boys, particularly fathers, as key allies in efforts to prevent Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and promote safer, more equitable communities across Ethiopia.
Gender-Based Violence remains a serious human rights concern affecting women and girls nationwide. While survivor-centered protection and support services remain central to response efforts, ENWS emphasizes that sustainable prevention requires transforming social norms and actively involving men in promoting respect, equality, and non-violence.
“Ending GBV requires collective responsibility,” ENWS stated during its ongoing awareness initiatives. “Men and boys especially fathers have a powerful influence in shaping attitudes, behaviors, and values within families and communities.”
The Role of Fathers in Preventing Violence
ENWS highlights that fathers play a unique and influential role in preventing gender-based violence by modeling respectful relationships and positive behaviors at home. Children often learn their understanding of gender roles, communication, and conflict resolution from family environments.
Positive fatherhood contributes to:
- Teaching boys respect and empathy from an early age
- Demonstrating non-violent communication and shared decision-making
- Supporting girls’ confidence, safety, and equal opportunities
- Challenging harmful stereotypes about masculinity
When fathers promote equality within households, ENWS notes, they help break intergenerational cycles of violence and discrimination.
Promoting Positive Masculinity
Through community dialogues, awareness campaigns, and partnerships, ENWS works to encourage discussions around positive masculinity emphasizing responsibility, care, and mutual respect rather than dominance or control.
Men who openly reject violence and advocate for equality can influence peers and community norms, contributing to long-term behavioral and cultural change.
Community-Based Prevention Approaches
ENWS and its member shelters continue implementing prevention initiatives that actively involve men, youth groups, and community leaders. These programs aim to:
- Increase awareness of the impact of GBV on families and communities
- Encourage fathers’ participation in caregiving and parenting roles
- Promote healthy and respectful relationships
- Engage boys early through education on gender equality and emotional well-being
The organization stresses that prevention efforts are most effective when families and communities work together.
Strengthening Partnerships for Sustainable Change
ENWS calls upon government institutions, civil society organizations, faith leaders, and development partners to integrate male engagement and fatherhood-focused approaches into GBV prevention strategies.
“Fathers, community leaders, and young men can become champions for change,” ENWS emphasized. “Their leadership is essential in creating environments where women and girls live free from violence.”
A Shared Responsibility for Safer Communities
As Ethiopia advances efforts toward gender equality and protection of human rights, ENWS reaffirms its commitment to strengthening survivor services while expanding prevention initiatives that engage men and fathers as partners in change.
The network encourages families and communities to promote respectful relationships, challenge harmful norms, and support collective action to end gender-based violence.
ENWS Message
“The Ethiopia Network of Women Shelters (ENWS) reaffirms its commitment to preventing gender-based violence through survivor-centered services, community engagement, and collaborative partnerships. ENWS calls upon men, fathers, youth, institutions, and communities to take shared responsibility in promoting equality, respect, and non-violence.
Ending gender-based violence requires collective action. By fostering positive masculinity, strengthening families, and empowering communities, lasting change can be achieved and safer futures can be built for women, girls, and all members of society.”
