Getting Men to the Gender Equality Table

Once again, a recent study on yet another form of GBV(gender-based violence) is garnering media attention. Breast-ironing, a cultural practice that inhibits the growth of breast tissue in young girls, is highlighted in a report by the Feinstein international Center (May 2012). Kudos to this study (and blog) which adds to the existing research /media exposure on gender-based violence and the evidence base being created about GBV as the world's most serious public health crisis. Also, RENATA-the Aunties Assoc.-is a good start. The practice of BI also exists in parts of Guinea Bissau, Benin, Guinea, Togo, and Chad. The surgical mutilation of the body has existed since ancient times and,unfortunately, also remains a central component of sexuality, self-image, and identity in upper-income ("developed") nations. Social pressures and cultural practices that harm or violate the rights of children need to be abolished, no question, and in whatever country. However, re-educating girls and boys (group education) on their nascent equality is the best grass-roots approach since the demands/entitlements of male sexuality and authority are at the heart of this, and other forms of,  violence against girls. Men and fathers are being drawn into activism at the local level as they have been on other related family issues in many parts of the world. Policy and institutional change are also occurring slowly. See 'What Men Have to Do With it" (Instituto Promundo/ICRW)