How do harmful ideas about masculinity take root in everyday life, and how can they be transformed? As part of the closing phase of the MAnU 2.0 programme, Mensen met een Missie and CDJP Bakavu developed this practical training manual on masculinities. Based on years of experience in Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo, the guide supports local organisations in addressing the social norms that shape inequality, conflict and violence.
While MAnU (Mwanamke, Amani na Usalama: Women, Peace & Security) focused on strengthening the role of women in peacebuilding, one insight became increasingly clear: lasting change is not possible without also engaging men. Norms around masculinity – such as expectations of dominance, control or emotional restraint – deeply influence relationships within families, communities and institutions.
From insight to practice
This manual translates that insight into practice. It is designed as a hands-on tool for facilitators who want to work on gender norms in a constructive and context-sensitive way. Rather than offering a fixed training to replicate, it provides a flexible methodology to design workshops tailored to local realities.
At its core, the approach is participatory and experience-based. Participants are not told what to think; they are invited to explore their own experiences. Through exercises, personal stories and group discussions, they begin to recognise how ideas about masculinity are formed, how they influence behaviour, and how they can change.
Working on beliefs to build peace
The guide covers different areas of daily life, from family and school to religious communities, and offers concrete methods to facilitate conversations on power, relationships, emotions and violence. It explicitly avoids framing men as the problem. Instead, it positions them as essential actors in building more equal and peaceful societies.
This reflects the broader approach of Mensen met een Missie: sustainable peace starts with changing harmful beliefs. Not through external solutions, but by supporting people and communities to reflect, connect and act differently from within.
By sharing this resource, we aim to support organisations, facilitators and community leaders in continuing this work, in ways that are locally grounded, relevant, and lasting.
