Ministry of Women launches National Consultation of Men to prevent violence against women

Santo Domingo. The Ministry of Women launched this Tuesday the National Consultation for the reduction of risks of violence against women, an initiative that seeks to promote the active participation of men in the construction of more equitable relationships and in the prevention of gender-based violence. Under the slogan “Voices that provide solutions from the male population”, the project is developed in coordination with the Dominican Municipal League, with the technical support of clinical psychologist Luis Vergés and the backing of the United Nations System. The query contemplates the realization of dialogue, awareness-raising, and information gathering sessions in different parts of the country, with a goal of reaching 5,000 men from various social sectors.

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During the launch event, the authorities explained that the initiative seeks to open spaces for active listening to learn about the perceptions, experiences, and challenges of the male population, with the purpose of strengthening public policies aimed at preventing violence against women, adolescents, and girls. The Resident Coordinator of the United Nations System in the country, Julia Sánchez, highlighted that gender equality requires the committed participation of men as fundamental actors in the processes of social transformation. Luis Vergés highlighted the importance of integrating men as part of the solution, promoting behaviors based on respect, co-responsibility, and healthy coexistence. The strategy includes digital consultations, sector meetings, territorial conferences, keynote speeches, and reflection spaces called "Conversing Among Men", where topics such as violence prevention, mental health, emotional regulation, and responsible fatherhood will be addressed.

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Authorities reported that the consultation will be deployed simultaneously throughout the national territory, with the support of the municipalities and local governments, which will have the task of coordinating citizen participation in each municipality. The process will allow identifying risk factors, behavioral patterns, and attitudes associated with violence, with the aim of generating useful information for the design of sustainable prevention strategies and strengthening public policies. According to the Ministry of Women, this initiative represents a significant step towards building a culture of respect and equality, fostering the participation of men in the social changes needed to eradicate violence against women in the Dominican Republic.