The training “Men Talking to Men” was conducted in Ozurgeti and Chiatura, on November 27 and 28 at the initiative of MenCare campaign, as part of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.
15 men attended the training conducted in partnership with the Chiatura Multifunctional Centre. In Ozurgeti, 12 men participated in the training conducted in partnership with the Network of Centres for Civic Engagement (NCCE).
The training module “Men Talking to Men” was developed based on international practice and research data, in partnership with the international organization Promundo US. The module was adapted by local facilitators, taking into account the cultural and social aspects of Georgia. At the meeting, facilitators and participants discussed topical issues such as equal distribution of household chores, equal involvement in the care of children, caring for family members, identifying elements of violence and reporting. The training module includes interactive activities, visual learning materials and is based on the principles of non-formal education.
A 2020 study conducted by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) “Men, Women, and Gender Relations in Georgia: Public Perceptions and Attitudes” reveals that gender roles are still unequally distributed in Georgia. 60% of men and 38% of women believe that women's main duty is to take care of the family rather than focusing on career progression. 47% of mothers and 58% of fathers say they spend equal time playing with their children, although fathers do not have a defined role in caring for their children. 78% of mothers and 76% of fathers say that the mother changes their children’s diapers or clothes.
Based on the current situation and the findings of the research, in order to raise awareness and promote public discussion, the UNFPA Georgia Country Office in cooperation with We Care, a partner organization, developed a one-day training module “Men Talking to Men” to be implemented in Tbilisi, Kakheti and Samegrelo. In 2020, Guria and Imereti joined the list of regions prepared to host the training. Since 2021, with the support of the European Union, the training “Men Talking to Men” have been held in Kvemo Kartli and Samtskhe-Javakheti regions.
The training “Men Talking to Men” is being conducted within the framework of the “EU 4 Gender Equality: Together against gender stereotypes and gender-based violence" programme, funded by the European Union, implemented jointly by UN Women and UNFPA.
