The #MeToo-movement has shown the extent of the problem of violence against women and girls. And this is only the tip of the iceberg. There are many forms of gender-based violence, sometimes manifested in behaviour and comments: in the media, on the street, in sports clubs, while going out and in schools. The incidence of sexual violence and harassment among young people is alarmingly high. Young people are particularly at risk of experiencing sexual violence and (sexual) harassment.

Themes covered in the workshop: sex and gender, prejudice and stereotypes, recognising boundaries and relationships, peer pressure and (sexual) violence.

The IMAGINE-workshop contributes to young people’s awareness of themes such as masculinity and femininity, relationships and sexuality, respecting boundaries and inappropriate (sexual) behaviour, and the prevention of violence. The workshop is tailor-made and focuses on the involvement of boys and (young) men, in order to reduce the risk of sexual intimidation and violence against girls and women.

”Youngsters are in a phase in which they discover themselves and search for their position in society, their sexuality and the interpretation of their identity. In the IMAGINE workshop, they will work together with peer educators. They will make them aware of the current gender stereotypes and social inequality, question current views and ideas on these topics, and discuss an alternative: being human as well as a man.”

In order to achieve a sustainable and wider societal change, we also focus on teachers, educators, parents, youth workers and social partners. This will enable them to continue the movement: at the kitchen table, in changing rooms, in the neighbourhood and in schools.