Statement of Liechtenstein, October, 2015

The Global Study also provides unequivocal evidence that full and equal participation of women at all levels, especially in decision-making and conflict resolution, is essential for the establishment and maintenance of peace. However, ensuring meaningful participation of women will only be possible if we change attitudes and make sure everybody is on board - including men and boys. Harmful stereotypes and violent ideas of manhood persist in many parts of the world. The only way to change cultural patterns is to educate the young, before they adopt discriminatory attitudes towards women. We therefore commend projects such as the "Young Men Initiative" by Care International, reaching out to teenage boys in post-conflict situations; UNFPA's "husband schools", informing men and boys about the many benefits of preventing early pregnancies and keeping girls in schools; or Women Without Borders' work with mothers to combat violent extremism.