10 Ways to Engage Men and Boys to Counter Backlash: Fact sheet and guidance for activists, academics and practitioners in gender equality, human rights, democracy and climate justice

An introduction to the connections between men, masculinities, and backlash – co-authored by the Men, Masculinities, and Countering Backlash Collective.

Engaging men and boys is crucial for countering the rising anti-rights and anti-gender backlash. These reactionary movements often rely on and reinforce patriarchal power structures and rigid gender norms. Far-right and anti-gender movements frequently appeal to men and boys — especially those feeling disempowered — and capitalize on feelings of isolation and dislocation in a changing world, by promising a return to a glorified, hierarchical version of masculinity and social order. Without engagement, these narratives go unchallenged and can gain dangerous momentum. To dismantle these harmful systems, men and boys must work in partnership with women, girls, and LGBTIQ people.

To help navigate this topic, it is organized into three sections:

• The Problem: An overview of the anti-rights backlash.
• The Solution: The rationale for why engaging men and boys is a crucial strategy.
• The ​‘How’: Practical guidance on how to do this work effectively.

At a glance 

At a glance, here are the 10 strategic recommendations for engaging men and boys in countering backlash:

1. Reframe the Male Victimhood Narrative
2. Shift Patriarchal Entitlement
3. Foster Allyship and Accountability
4. Monitor and Counter Anti-gender Narratives
5. Create Spaces for Dialogue and Support
6. Use the Right Messengers
7. Focus on Sexuality Education, Mental Health and Care
8. Engage in Creative Media for Shifting Narratives
9. Utilize Spiritual and Religious Entry Points
10. Focus on Men in Positions of Power as Targets of Change

About the authors 

This document was developed by the Men, Masculinities and Countering Backlash Collective, a group of civil society organizations committed to addressing the backlash against gender justice and rights. Convened by MenEngage Alliance, the collective believes that engaging men and boys is a key part of the solution.

Find out more 

Click here for more resources on backlash and here to find out more about the work of MenEngage Alliance on backlash.