Domestic abuse prevention is one of the key focus areas of the President Kaljulaid Foundation. As part of this effort, we also address misogyny – gender-based hatred – and take a critical look at extreme gender norms among young people. Rigid gender roles and stereotyped constructions of masculinity and femininity often lie at the root of domestic violence, shaping harmful ideas about relationships and power.
According to the 2024 Eurobarometer survey, only 46 percent of Estonian boys aged 15–24 believe that gender equality also benefits men, compared to the European average of 71 percent. The widening gap between the attitudes of Estonian boys and girls was also confirmed by the International Civic and Citizenship Education Study (2021).
To confront these challenges, we launched a youth-focused initiative in autumn 2025, combining two main spheres: social media and education.
Scope of the project:
We launch Instagram and TikTok channels that will drive honest conversations about masculinity, the harm caused by restrictive stereotypes—regardless of gender—and the importance of positive role models. The goal is to engage as many young people as possible in meaningful discussions about gender and related issues.
At the heart of the educational component of the project, lies creativity and interdisciplinarity – tools that help young people explore complex themes in accessible, engaging, and inspiring ways.
In collaboration with universities, we are organizing a student masterclass where participants work together to produce creative projects –ranging from audiovisual pieces and installations to essays and social media campaigns. These works will be showcased in public spaces during the Orange Weeks, the President Kaljulaid Foundation’s annual campaign dedicated to preventing domestic violence.
Our aim is not only to study and discuss these issues but also to reflect them creatively back to society – to bring dialogue and artistic expression into public and urban spaces. Together with young people, we want to create visible, inclusive, and thought-provoking works that challenge harmful norms and inspire more compassionate perspectives.
The social media project is supported by the Nordic Council of Ministers.
The educational project is supported by the European Union and implemented as an Erasmus+ youth participation project.
Funded by the European Union. The views and opinions expressed are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.