Men, HIV/AIDS, and human rights.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Sociology
• Gender Studies

Background:

• Gender equality initiatives involving men are expanding globally.
• Evidence shows targeted programs can shift social practices affecting health, particularly concerning HIV/AIDS.
• Current approaches often focus on harm to women, overlooking harm to men from rigid masculinity norms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To advocate for a more inclusive approach to engaging men in gender equality.
• To highlight the diversity among men and their unequal access to health and rights.
• To recommend strategies that view men as agents of change and rights-holders.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature and initiatives on men and gender equality.
• Analysis of the impact of masculinity norms on men's health and rights.
• Synthesis of recommendations for policy and program development.

Main Results:

• Men are not a monolithic group; intersecting discrimination affects their health and rights.
• Approaches focusing solely on men as privileged holders of power are insufficient.
• Inclusive strategies are needed to engage disempowered men and those challenging gender roles.

Conclusions:

• Engaging men requires recognizing their diverse experiences and rights.
• Interventions should avoid stereotyping and address the harm caused by regressive masculinity norms to both men and women.
• Scaling successful local initiatives is crucial for national and international impact.