In line with the Gender Equality Strategy 2020–2025, which recognises the key role of men, boys, and masculinities in violence prevention, and the Gender Equality Strategy 2024–2029, which highlights men as agents and beneficiaries of change and strategic partners in achieving gender equality, the ManUp4Her project aimed to actively engage men in eliminating GBV. The project sought to enhance men’s social competencies and soft skills, enabling them to understand women’s experiences of violence and discrimination in different areas of life and to recognise early warning signs. The project aimed to create tailored, high-quality learning resources to foster empathy, promote continuous personal and professional development, and support men in taking an active role in preventing GBV. At the same time, the project strengthened partner organisations’ capacity and collaboration across Europe, increasing visibility, multiplying impact, and creating resources that are easily reusable in local and international GBV prevention initiatives.
ManUp4Her project recognised the urgent and persistent issue of gender-based violence (GBV) across Europe. GBV continues to affect the lives and well-being of women. Data from Eurostat, EIGE, and FRA (2024) confirm that GBV shows no signs of slowing down. Approximately 36.5% of women in Greece, 31.7% in Italy, 28.2% in Spain, and 25.6% in Germany have experienced physical or sexual violence or threats, and the real numbers are likely higher due to underreporting. These figures underline the cross-national dimension of the problem and the shared responsibility to act. In some countries, as demonstrated by the “Nordic paradox,” prevalence is even higher due to differences in awareness and recognition. Policies and awareness campaigns exist, but men’s active participation in fighting GBV remains limited. Their involvement calls for measures that promote inclusion, challenge gender norms, and involve men in safe, non-judgemental environments. This project aimed to bridge the gap between policy and practice by fostering cross-national cooperation and creating tailored, inclusive resources. The tools developed promote men’s involvement in preventing and recognising GBV, contributing to safer, more inclusive societies in Europe.