#SíEsDeHombres: Redefining Masculinity for a More Equitable World in Bolivia

Thu, 06/27/2024 - 00:00

In an important move towards gender equality, UN Women Bolivia in recent collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Bolivia, launched the #SíEsDeHombres campaign roughly translating to #YesItIsMen in English. This initiative targets adolescents, and young adults, urging them to rethink and redefine traditional gender roles. By deconstructing harmful stereotypes, the campaign aims to foster societies where equality is the norm, and everyone can fully exercise their rights.

The campaign also addresses the modern challenges of digital violence, such as the non-consensual dissemination of intimate images. By promoting the prevention of such acts, #SíEsDeHombres is taking a stand against all forms of violence, both offline and online. These messages are designed to inspire men to become advocates for change, promoting a culture of zero tolerance towards violence against women and girls.

The campaign plans to consolidate strategic alliances with networks of young people and students, particularly in the city of El Alto, Bolivia. This youth engagement is crucial for the prevention of sexual violence and the promotion of healthy, egalitarian relationships from a young age.

At the heart of #SíEsDeHombres is the concept of positive social norms. This involves daily actions that dismantle patriarchal and sexist norms, replacing them with behaviors that foster equality. The campaign seeks to eliminate traditional gender roles that create power imbalances and contribute to violence and discrimination.

About HeForShe

HeForShe is the United Nations Global Solidarity Movement For Gender Equality. HeForShe is an invitation for men and people of all genders to stand in solidarity with women to create a bold, visible and united force for gender equality. The men of HeForShe aren't on the sidelines. They're working with women and with each other to build businesses, raise families, and give back to their communities.

About UN Women
UN Women is the United Nations entity dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women. A global champion for women and girls, UN Women was established to accelerate progress on meeting their needs worldwide.

About the UNFPA:
The UNFPA is the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency. Their mission is to deliver a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe and every young person's potential is fulfilled.

Summary of country programme

UN Women’s Bolivia Strategic Note 2023-2027 seeks to advance gender equality and women's empowerment by addressing challenges such as gender-based violence, economic inequality and political underrepresentation. It integrates intersectionality to understand and address multiple forms of discrimination against women. Key locations include rural and Indigenous areas.

The programme prioritizes governance and political participation, economic empowerment, and the elimination of violence against women and girls. It emphasizes innovation and approaches such as capacity-building, social norms changes, policy advocacy and community engagement.

Major partnerships with government institutions, civil society organizations and international agencies as well as participation in UN joint programmes enhance effectiveness. Collaboration with entities including the Ministry of Justice and international donors aims to achieve significant outcomes, including improved legal frameworks and increased women's participation in decision-making. Strategic Note direct funding supports these initiatives.

Annual report 2024