“Being a Man in Kosovar Society”
“By masculinity, I understand a hegemony that has the norms, the rules, so that for accepting a man inside the hegemony, that man must be a ruler, a leader, and aggressive, that’s the masculinity that has been created, that hegemony has been created. For society to accept you, you have to walk straight, you have to have a thicker voice, because there are many men who do not stand out with masculinity, and we can see how society sees it, the masculine hegemony does not accept him in its system, they start bullying him with various words” said one interviewee.
Society’s expectations and norms surrounding masculinity play a significant role in shaping the identity and behavior of young boys and men. By recognizing the importance of understanding these dynamics, SIT in collaboration and support from the UNFPA Office in Kosovo, has undertaken a research project titled “Being a Man in Kosovar Society.”, which was launched today at the NGO- 7 Arte in Mitrovica. The project seeks to examine the thoughts and attitudes of young boys and men in Kosovo, aiming to explore the meaning of being a young man, societal expectations of male behavior, and the impact of these expectations on their lives and relationships.
The goal of the research was to understand the thoughts and attitudes of young boys and men in Kosovo, exploring what it means to be a young man and the expectations placed upon them, and how these expectations affect their lives and relationships. The report’s focus on masculinity in Kosovar society is of paramount importance due to its potential influence on individuals’ identities, roles, and actions, as well as on their interactions with society, including women. By delving into these questions, the research aims to promote a better understanding of the challenges and pressures faced by young men, leading to informed discussions and the development of targeted interventions.
“Being a Man in Kosovar Society” seeks to answer three fundamental questions: What is it to be a young man? Understanding the diverse experiences and perspectives of young men in Kosovo is crucial for challenging stereotypes and misconceptions. By exploring the multifaceted nature of masculinity, the research aims to contribute to a more nuanced understanding of male identities in Kosovar society. How is a man supposed to behave? Societal expectations often dictate specific behavioral norms for men, which can vary across different cultures and communities. This research project aims to investigate the prevailing norms and expectations placed on young men in Kosovo, examining how these expectations influence their behavior, choices, and overall well-being. How important are these expectations in the lives of young boys and men? By assessing the impact of societal expectations on the lives of young men, the research aims to shed light on the extent to which these expectations shape their self-perception, relationships, and aspirations. Understanding the significance of these expectations is crucial for fostering healthier, more inclusive, and gender-equitable societies.
During the launch event, project partners presented the report’s key findings, offering an illuminating perspective on the challenges faced by young men in Kosovo. The research delved into the meaning of being a young man, the societal expectations of male behavior, and the impact of these expectations on the lives of individuals and their relationships. The event was a platform for engaging in discussions, bringing together students, activists, stakeholders from various sectors, public institutions’ representatives, and representatives from civil society organizations.
The report “Being a Man in Kosovar Society” serves as a significant step toward understanding and addressing the challenges faced by young boys and men in Kosovo. By delving into the meaning of masculinity and exploring societal expectations, this research project provides valuable insights into the complexities of gender dynamics, as well as it is an important step toward promoting inclusivity and challenging rigid gender stereotypes in our society.
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