Sustaining parity within the workplace aids in attracting and retaining talented, promising individuals, ultimately contributing to societal and economic development. Yet, entrenched societal stereotypes regarding men and women frequently create barriers and hinder the realization of human capital's full potential.

Based on the 2019 study “Women, Men, and Gender Relations” conducted by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), 74.2% of women and 79.5% of men concur that “a woman's primary duty is to remain at home and care for the family.”

Such gender role segregation impedes the realization of human capital and obstructs women's economic participation and career advancement. Data from the National Statistics Office of Georgia (GeoStat) reveals a significantly lower economic activity rate for women (41.5%) compared to men (64%). This disparity is partially attributable to the increased burden of caregiving responsibilities and expectations regarding men's and women's professional and social roles based on gender stereotypes. Evidence suggests that addressing this challenge requires promoting supportive and equality-oriented attitudes in the workplace and beyond, which will aid in breaking down gender stereotypes and allowing all members of society, irrespective of gender, to fully realize their potential.

To foster a supportive and equitable environment in the workplace, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), in collaboration with the partner organization “Care Together,” has been implementing a one-day training module entitled “Men Talking to Men” in Tbilisi and the regions of Georgia since 2016.

Developed in partnership with the international organization Equimundo, this training module draws upon international practices and research data. Local facilitators have adapted the module to Georgia's cultural and social context.

"Men Talking to Men" for Business 

Since 2022, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has collaborated with the private sector to introduce family-friendly and gender-responsive workplace policies. These policies aim to advance women's economic participation and empowerment, facilitating the realization of their potential within the labor market and fostering responsible fatherhood. Notably, Tegeta Holding is a pivotal partner in this endeavor.

“Recognizing the significance of gender equality in the workplace, Tegeta Holding has incorporated it as an integral part of its corporate social responsibility. Notably, Tegeta Holding holds the distinction of being the first company in the business sector to implement the UNFPA-supported "Men Talking to Men" training module on a substantial scale as part of the 'MenCare' Campaign”, Tatia Khorbaladze, Head of the Strategic Communications Department at Tegeta Holding, affirms the successful implementation of this program for two consecutive years.

Furthermore, Khorbaladze highlights the expansion of training initiatives to employees in regional locations. This initiative has positively impacted over 200 individuals during its two years of operation:

“Tegeta Holding, as a responsible entity, is actively engaged in fostering an organizational culture that promotes equality. The company firmly believes that such projects are pivotal in raising awareness about gender equality. The "Men Talking to Men" sessions offer a platform for exclusively male participants to gain insights into workplace equality, family-friendly policies, the role of fathers in child-rearing, and other pertinent topics.”

The "Men Talking to Men" initiative, supported by the European Union for several years, presents a valuable opportunity for employed men in the business sector to reflect on the significance of gender equality in their workplace. Research suggests that embracing gender equality positively impacts productivity, teamwork, and the attainment of favorable outcomes. Moreover, it mitigates the risk of reinforcing stereotypes, creating discriminatory or non-supportive work environments, and preventing actions that could potentially harm the company's reputation.

Kakha Gegidze, one of the employees of Tegeta Holding, who participated in the training seminar held in Batumi in July, says:

"Participating in the project Men Talking to Men was a very interesting experience and I am glad to have been offered this opportunity. I think the topic is quite broad and relevant, and we should frequently discuss such issues. During the training, we exchanged views on various issues related to gender equality. I am sure the participants will reflect on the stereotypes we discussed during the meetings, which, unfortunately, still prevail in our society today."

As Marika Kurdadze, Program Manager at UNFPA, points out, "It is extremely important for UNFPA to expand its circle of like-minded people and partners and engage organizations and individuals who are committed to the ideas of equality."

"We believe that social change is only achieved through long-term, consistent, and multi-sectoral effort. That is why we build a close partnership with representatives of the private sector. Men Talking to Men is a great opportunity for men employed in business to once again reflect on the importance of gender equality in their workplace. Research shows that this positively impacts their productivity, teamwork, and the achievement of effective results. Most importantly, through this module, facilitators encourage participants to generate a high level of sensitivity towards entrenched stereotypes and become more responsible and supportive team members."

Empirical evidence and data accumulated from various nations illustrate that engaging young men in the creation of an equitable environment fosters sustainable societal development. Men who exhibit heightened sensitivity towards discriminatory norms emerge as more effective leaders, employees, advocates, partners, and nurturing family members.

Furthermore, men who recognize the significance of equality set a positive precedent for other employees, thereby contributing to the establishment of an organizational culture that champions equality. Additionally, men who uphold the belief that non-violent and egalitarian norms within families are essential for their personal growth and harmonious relationships apply the same principles in the workplace.

The Men Talking to Men for Business initiative is implemented by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) within the framework of “Gender Equality for Georgia (GE4Georgia)” programme, funded by the European Union.