Inside Geneva: Toxic Masculinity and the Rollback of Gender Equality
Hosted by Imogen Foulkes, SWI swissinfo.ch
Release Date: May 13, 2025

Introduction

In the May 13, 2025 episode of Inside Geneva, hosted by journalist Imogen Foulkes, the discussion centers on the resurgence of toxic masculinity and its impact on the rollback of gender equality. Produced by SWI swissinfo.ch, the podcast delves into the interplay between global political shifts, humanitarian issues, and international aid, offering insights from experts in the field.

Defining Toxic Masculinity

The episode begins with a critical examination of the term "toxic masculinity," a concept that has gained significant attention in recent years. Host Imogen Foulkes initiates the conversation by posing the question to her guests, Lata Narayanaswamy and Leandra Baez, about their definitions and perspectives on the term.

Leandra Baez (00:05:09):
"I don't use toxic masculinity in my research, but it's intimately connected to what we describe as the rise of traditional values and how that shapes government policies. Programs built on patriarchal and heteronormative ideals glorify what popular opinion might label as toxic masculinity."

Lata Narayanaswamy (00:06:12):
"Toxic masculinity is a buzzword highlighting emerging trends within state structures. It's not just about individuals; it reflects a continuity of how violence and patriarchy justify certain expressions of masculinity."

Both experts agree that toxic masculinity extends beyond individual behavior, encompassing systemic and institutionalized expressions that reinforce gender stereotypes and undermine gender equality.

Historical Context and the Beijing Declaration

Imogen Foulkes provides historical context by referencing the 1995 Beijing Declaration, a landmark event that unified global efforts towards gender equality and women's rights. This declaration emphasized that "human rights are women's rights and women's rights are human rights" (00:00:24).

Lata Narayanaswamy (00:07:24):
"The Beijing Declaration was a pivotal moment, committing to gender equality because women constitute half of humanity. However, some signs of resistance were already present, and recent trends suggest an extension of these challenges."

Resurgence of Toxic Masculinity

The conversation shifts to recent developments indicating a resurgence of toxic masculinity, particularly among young men. This trend is attributed to various factors, including the influence of misogynistic influencers on social media and policy shifts by traditional donors.

Leandra Baez (00:01:05):
"Trump vetoed a UN Women peace and security resolution because it enshrined reproductive rights for women. This reflects a broader trend of promoting traditional gender roles and undermining gender equality."

Lata Narayanaswamy (00:01:37):
"The language of toxic masculinity suggests it's a new phenomenon, but it's actually a continuation of long-standing patriarchal structures that combine violence with traditional male roles."

The guests highlight how policies and rhetoric from influential leaders and governments are reinforcing gender stereotypes and undermining the progress made since the Beijing Declaration.

International Influence and Authoritarianism

A significant portion of the discussion focuses on the connection between toxic masculinity and the rise of authoritarian politics. The episode explores how countries like Russia and the United States are fostering traditional masculinity through various means, including state-sponsored programs and alliances with influential groups.

Leandra Baez (00:16:33):
"Russia's promotion of traditional values and defense of traditional family structures is an extreme case of how toxic masculinity serves as a tool for authoritarian regimes. This narrative discredits democracy and promotes nihilism by portraying gender equality as a Western tool of oppression."

Lata Narayanaswamy (00:11:49):
"There is an extraordinary alliance between evangelical groups in the US and Russian oligarchs aimed at oppressing gender equality and women's rights. This partnership underscores the systemic challenges we face in advancing gender justice."

The interplay between economic instability, militarization, and the reinforcement of patriarchal values is identified as a catalyst for these authoritarian tendencies, further entrenching toxic masculinity in global politics.

Role of the UN and Multilateral Actions

Imogen Foulkes raises concerns about the United Nations' ability to counteract these regressive trends, especially in light of funding cuts to programs focused on gender equality and diversity.

Lata Narayanaswamy (00:23:23):
"The UN must preserve what works and find creative solutions to address the economic and social instability that fuels these toxic movements. Strengthening the authority of international laws and norms is crucial for maintaining the UN as a global commons for problem-solving."

Leandra Baez (00:25:57):
"Member states need to commit to funding advocacy groups and building broader alliances within the UN. Without substantial support from liberal democracies, the UN struggles to push for progressive changes and defend gender equality effectively."

Both guests emphasize the necessity of multilateral cooperation and robust funding to sustain and advance gender justice initiatives within the UN framework.

Call to Action and Solutions

In the episode's concluding segments, the guests offer strategies to combat the resurgence of toxic masculinity and promote gender equality.

Leandra Baez (00:27:33):
"Empowering men and boys to embrace diverse masculinities is essential. Creating spaces where alternative, non-toxic forms of masculinity are valued can help dismantle the hegemonic, patriarchal narratives."

Lata Narayanaswamy (00:28:14):
"We need to tell better, more inclusive stories that highlight a world where everyone is respected and valued. Utilizing multilateral spaces like the UN to promote gender equality benefits everyone and counters the nostalgic narratives that fuel traditionalist agendas."

Imogen Foulkes (00:30:03):
"Reclaiming the idea of a happy family as diverse and inclusive is vital. Families come in all forms, and embracing this diversity is a step towards broader societal acceptance and gender equality."

The episode underscores the importance of storytelling, education, and inclusive policies in challenging toxic masculinity and advancing gender equality.

Conclusion

Inside Geneva effectively navigates the complex landscape of toxic masculinity and its implications for gender equality. Through expert insights and critical analysis, the podcast highlights the systemic nature of these issues and the urgent need for collective action at both national and international levels. The episode serves as a compelling call to defend and advance gender justice amidst rising authoritarianism and regressive gender policies.

Notable Quotes:

• Leandra Baez (00:01:05):
  "Trump vetoed a UN Women peace and security resolution because it enshrined reproductive rights for women."

• Lata Narayanaswamy (00:07:24):
  "The Beijing Declaration was a pivotal moment, committing to gender equality because women constitute half of humanity."

• Leandra Baez (00:16:33):
  "Russia's promotion of traditional values and defense of traditional family structures is an extreme case of how toxic masculinity serves as a tool for authoritarian regimes."

• Lata Narayanaswamy (00:23:23):
  "The UN must preserve what works and find creative solutions to address the economic and social instability that fuels these toxic movements."

• Leandra Baez (00:27:33):
  "Empowering men and boys to embrace diverse masculinities is essential."

This summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and conclusions from the Inside Geneva episode, providing a comprehensive overview for those who have not listened to the podcast.