This report aims to advance discussions about integrating a masculinities perspective into peacebuilding policy and practice. It examines existing programmes that promote non-violent and gender equitable masculinities and poses key questions about how these can be further developed to challenge the gender norms which drive conflict and insecurity.
To identify promising approaches which could be adapted for peacebuilding purposes, Saferworld conducted desk research on projects and programmes by 19 organisations or networks across five continents. This report is therefore not a comprehensive review of all projects which engage with men and boys to change attitudes towards masculinity, of which there are many. Instead, it presents a cross-section of those deemed most relevant, those that deal primarily with the issue of masculinities and violence. Literature reviewed included evaluation reports, other project documents, training and campaign materials, and academic papers. Lessons learned from three programming models are summarised in the report: group education strategies, community outreach strategies, and integrated approaches which combine the two. South Sudan is one of the cases studies of the report.