Countering Anti-Democratic Masculinities: State of the Art of Evidence-Based Interventions

This report presents a systematic review of intervention strategies aimed at countering anti-democratic masculinities and preventing the radicalization of young men in Europe. Guided by PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) standards, the review synthesizes scientific evidence on interventions that address violent, hierarchical, and exclusionary forms of masculinity—those closely associated with gender-based violence, radicalization, and resistance to gender equality. The rising appeal of authoritarian ideologies among young men is interpreted as a response to two key dynamics: structural economic insecurity and backlash against progressive gender norms. As traditional male roles rooted in economic dominance erode, anti-democratic movements exploit discontent by promoting patriarchal and exclusionary ideals, often scapegoating feminism and gender equality.

The review identifies and evaluates interventions across three areas: (1) efforts to reduce gender-based violence by challenging norms that legitimize aggression; (2) reframing masculinity to promote empathetic, emotionally expressive, and cooperative male identities; and (3) empowering bystanders to interrupt harmful behavior and break cycles of complicity. Evidence highlights the need to move beyond symbolic or short-term efforts and prioritize structural, research-based, and context-sensitive approaches. Successful interventions are typically group-based, participatory, and inclusive of all genders, fostering peer learning, emotional literacy, and relational understanding of masculinity.

The report emphasizes the importance of sustained investment in training, evaluation, and adaptation, while also attending to intersecting factors such as race, class, and geography. The report calls for integrated, rigorous, and inclusive approaches to support the development of democratic masculinities and resilience among young men in the face of rising extremism.”