We are starting 2014 on the right foot! This is the first edition of Equimundo News and we already have an exciting announcement: Equimundo has opened a European office in Coimbra, Portugal. The new “Equimundo-Europe” delegation aims to extend our research on masculinities and gender relations within the context of the current European financial and economic crisis. Read inside for more details.
Also in this edition, Marina Motta, a researcher with Instituto Equimundo, analyzes recent cases of violence against women in Brazil. Based on this data, Motta argues the need to question hegemonic masculinities and traditional gender norms – since transforming these ideals can have the power to reduce gender-based-violence in Brazil and worldwide.
On this topic, let’s take a closer look at Equimundo’s report Gender Equality and Development – Engaging men and boys in advancing women’s agency: Where we stand and new directions. The recent publication, commissioned by the World Bank, found that men are more likely to perpetrate violence when they have already witnessed violence against their mothers. The conclusion suggests that future violence prevention campaigns should focus on breaking the intergenerational transmission of norms and violence.
Don’t miss our interview with Amana Mattos, Assistant Professor for the Psychology department at the State University of Rio de Janeiro (Uerj). Mattos discusses gender education for youth and adolescents, as well as the emergence of new technologies in schools – which will bring challenges to teachers.
Furthermore, stay updated about our MenCare+ program, which aims to promote sexual and reproductive health among youth, and engage men in maternal health and childcare. The program was launched in three countries as 2013 came to a close: Rwanda, South Africa and Indonesia. And in Brazil, it was expanded with the introduction of the Shameless campaign in nine public schools.
In the new year, we hope to continue to receive your support and cooperation. Let’s work together for a more just and equitable world.
Enjoy your reading!