Project Kesher Ukraine Hosts Panel on Men as Allies in Preventing Gender-Based Violence

As part of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, Project Kesher Ukraine, together with its partner Zhovten Cinema in Kyiv, held a public panel discussion titled “Alongside Women: How Men Become Allies in Preventing Gender-Based Violence.”

The event brought together human rights and cultural leaders, a psychologist, and community members to discuss why ending violence is impossible without men’s active involvement. Topics included the role of witnesses, community responsibility, and practical steps men can take to challenge silence and harmful norms.

The discussion opened with the screening of PKU’s new social media campaign video, featuring Ukrainian men from different professions speaking out against violence. The video was also shown nationwide in partner cinemas during the campaign.

Speakers highlighted persistent barriers to reporting violence — shame, fear, and lack of trust — and emphasized the importance of supportive language and visible male allyship in helping survivors feel believed and supported.

By centering men as partners in prevention, PKU continues to expand public dialogue and collective responsibility in addressing gender-based violence, even amid the challenges of wartime.