The project aimed to provide an overview of existing support systems for male victims of domestic violence in the participating countries. It also sought to collect examples of good practice and highlight current challenges in professional practice. The exchange was intended to enable professionals to learn from each other and discover effective approaches to reaching and supporting affected boys and men. Another goal was to professionalize gender equality-oriented experts. Through exchange and joint reflection, counseling skills were to be strengthened and the role of professionals as advocates for male victims consolidated. The project also aimed to strengthen pro-feminist positions in order to promote a clear distinction from anti-feminist movements. Networking and establishing lasting cooperation in the spirit of international knowledge transfer were central to the project. Making male victims of violence visible was intended to sensitize experts and decision-makers and emphasize the need for pro-feminist support services in order to contribute to the long-term promotion of equality and protection against violence.
Male victims of domestic violence remain a highly taboo subject in German-speaking countries. Men and boys are disadvantaged in the violence protection system: several countries lack specialized services or shelters. There was a need to raise awareness of support systems for male victims and to identify existing structures. The project responded to the need for professionals to exchange information across regions, learn from each other, and pool proven approaches. An analysis of the current situation was intended to map the legal framework, support services, and social perception, thereby contributing to the further development of support systems in the respective countries. At the same time, the project took up European developments (e.g., the Istanbul Convention and the Council of Europe's guidelines) that encourage member states to provide support structures for male victims as well. In addition, gender equality-oriented, pro-feminist And pro-democratic approaches to protecting men from violence should be strengthened and professionals in this challenging field should be networked. This should counteract the appropriation of the issue by anti-feminist and anti-democratic groups.