‘Vital to address root cause of such violent acts': Why gender equality starts with boys
BHUBANESWAR: The recent cases of sexual harassment against women in Odisha have once again emphasised the urgency to effectively address women's safety. And as we often get to see that as a society our response is almost always policing the women by imposing curfews, dress codes and putting mobility restrictions on them under the guise of protection.
But this approach fails to address the root cause and instead, perpetuates gender inequality.
Gender-based violence remains a societal challenge, deeply rooted in patriarchal culture and by restricting women's freedom, we are sending a message that they are vulnerable and in need of control. Instead of empowering them and transforming men's attitude, we are restricting the girls, which will hardly bring any change.
These measures do not deter violence nor do they address the underlying attitudes among men that lead to abuse, harassment and discrimination. Moreover, suchpolicing reinforces victim-blaming and limits women's opportunities for independence, progress and equality.
Gender theorists through their research have found that most cases of violence against women, whether it is emotional abuse, sexual harassment or rape, involves a male perpetrator, highlighting the urgent need to sensitize men.
As a patriarchal society, men are often encouraged to suppress their emotions and families even scold boys if they cry.
Such attitudes fuel the cycles of violence and studies have shown that boys who experience or witness violence in childhood are at a greater risk of becoming perpetrators themselves.
We can take lessons from countries like Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden which rank high in Gender Development Index.
They have pioneered gender-equitable socialization, allowing boys to express emotions openly and share domestic roles equally. These societies have seen lower rates of gender-based violence and greater freedoms for women, demonstrating the impact of progressive socialization of men.
Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in nurturing boys with empathy and encouraging them to openly express their emotions, while fostering respect for others.
Schools also have an important responsibility to incorporate curriculum that emphasizes gender equality from an early age.
(The writer is a retired professor of sociology, Utkal University)
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