Online Reporter
Innocent Mujeri and Reign Nheta
Herald Correspondents
The annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) serve as a powerful reminder of the pervasive issue of abuse in our societies.
Traditionally, this campaign has focused on the plight of women, who have historically borne the brunt of gender-based violence.
Statistics from the World Health Organisation (WHO) reveal that nearly one in three women worldwide has experienced violence at least once in their lifetime.
While these numbers underscore the critical importance of protecting women, an equally urgent yet often overlooked reality is emerging: men are increasingly becoming victims of GBV.
The systems designed to address gender-based violence largely fail to support men, creating a silent epidemic that leaves many male victims without recourse.
The historical context
Historically, women have been deemed the most vulnerable demographic regarding GBV due to entrenched patriarchal norms and systemic inequalities.
This reality necessitated the establishment of laws, organisations, and support systems tailored specifically to women’s needs.
Shelters, hotlines, and counselling services have provided critical lifelines for women escaping abusive situations. Organisations like UN Women and various non-governmental organisations (NGOs) have been instrumental in advocating for survivors’ rights, enacting protective legislation, and reshaping societal attitudes toward women’s safety.
However, these systems often exclude men.
Despite women remaining at higher risk, a growing body of evidence suggests that men are not immune to abuse.
The lack of recognition and support for male victims perpetuates a cycle of silence, stigma, and suffering.
The emerging reality
Emerging research reveals a concerning trend: men are increasingly reporting experiences of abuse, including physical, emotional, and financial violence, often perpetrated by women.
A study by Men’s Rights Advocacy International found that nearly one in six men has experienced domestic violence.
Data from the National Centre for Injury Prevention and Control indicates that 24 percent men in the United States have reported intimate partner violence, yet only a small fraction of these cases are addressed.
The forms of abuse men face are similar to those experienced by women—physical violence, manipulation, isolation, and coercive control.
However, men encounter additional barriers, such as societal ridicule and disbelief, and a lack of tailored resources. These barriers create a culture where men are hesitant to report abuse.
The stigma surrounding male victims
The stigma surrounding male victims of abuse is rooted in deeply entrenched gender norms.
Men are traditionally seen as protectors and providers, making it difficult for society to perceive them as victims. Reporting abuse can feel like a betrayal of these expectations, leading to feelings of embarrassment and shame.
A study by Psychology Today found that 63 percent of male survivors of intimate partner violence felt they would not be believed if they reported their abuse.
Societal attitudes often trivialise male victimhood, perpetuating harmful stereotypes with phrases like “he should be able to handle it.”
Lack of support systems
Unlike the extensive networks available to female survivors, men often navigate a void. Few shelters exist for male victims, and most helplines and counselling services are geared towards women.
This lack of infrastructure leaves male survivors with limited options for escaping abusive relationships or seeking emotional support.
In some cases, men who attempt to report abuse encounter outright hostility or ridicule.
Advocacy groups have reported that male victims are often told to “man up” or are dismissed as fabricating their claims. Such responses not only discourage men from seeking help but also reinforce damaging cultural narratives about masculinity.
Consequences of ignoring male victims
The absence of support systems and societal acceptance has far-reaching consequences. Many male victims internalise their pain, leading to severe mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, and Post-Traumatic Stress D Disorder (PTSD).
Tragically, this pressure can result in suicide. According to the WHO, men account for 78 percent of global suicides, often linked to unresolved trauma and unaddressed abuse.
A call for change
Addressing gender based violence against men requires a paradigm shift in how societies perceive and respond to abuse.
Advocacy groups, policymakers, and community leaders must collaborate to create systems that acknowledge and address the unique challenges faced by male survivors.
Governments and NGOs should invest in shelters, helplines, and counselling services tailored specifically to male survivors. Public awareness campaigns should challenge harmful stereotypes about masculinity and victimhood.
Education programmes can help dismantle the stigma surrounding male vulnerability, fostering a culture where men feel empowered to seek help without fear of judgment.
Training for police officers, social workers, and healthcare professionals is essential to ensure that male survivors are treated with dignity and respect.
Community-based initiatives, such as support groups for male survivors, can provide safe spaces for men to share their experiences and heal collectively.
Governments and research institutions should prioritise the collection and analysis of data on male victimhood to inform policy decisions and allocate resources effectively.
The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is an opportunity to reflect on the progress made while recognising persistent gaps.
While women remain disproportionately affected, the growing prevalence of violence against men demands urgent attention.
Creating an inclusive approach to combating GBV requires acknowledging that abuse knows no gender.
By expanding support systems, challenging harmful cultural norms, and fostering a culture of empathy and understanding, societies can ensure that no survivor is left behind.
Breaking the silence around male victimhood is the first step toward building a world where all individuals can live free from violence and fear.
