UPre women attended a book discussion on gender equality at Martinus in Košice. They had a new experience, gained new perspectives and insights, and showed the audience that they are part of our community and have something to say about important issues.
The discussion (October 8, 2025) was organized by the civic associations Prima and Brána do života with the aim of creating a safe space where we can talk about gender stereotypes, how they arise, how they affect our lives, and what we can do about them.
Why do we fall prey to negative stereotypes so easily?
The discussion began with some basic information about what a stereotype is and how it arises.. While in society we often associate stereotypes with negative situations, our lives are filled with many positive stereotypes that help us make decisions more easily or navigate the world. That is also why we are so quick to fall prey to stereotypes. Our brains have to process any changes or new developments in our lives, and that isn’t always easy. That is why he prefers established patterns of behavior, which often turn into stereotypes.
When violence is being justified
A major focus of the discussion was gender-based violence, as violence in relationships is often rooted in gender inequality and can occur either under the influence of alcohol or without any connection to alcohol. Olga, a woman from UPre, also joined this part of the discussion. She shared with the audience her experience of the abuse her father had inflicted on her when she was a child. She also pointed out that in the communities where marginalized Roma groups live, violence occurs frequently and is just as often considered normal. And when someone stands up for a woman who is experiencing violence, the community condemns them, saying it’s none of their business.
We all can experience gender-based violence
Violence stemming from stereotypical notions about the roles of men and women sometimes occurs as a result of pressure from society or one’s surroundings. Sometimes a man might actually enjoy cooking or taking care of the children, but the people around him push the idea of how a “real man” should behave, and so he succumbs to that pressure. At the same time, we must not forget that men also experience gender-based violence when women make demands of them that they are unable or unwilling to meet. Although the figures show that 95% of women and only 5% of men experience gender-based violence.
What about gender equality in the workplace?
It is not just about pay equity between men and women, but also about the conditions and opportunities for career advancement available to men versus those available to women (especially when they become mothers).
And what did we take away from the event?
- Gender equality isn’t about erasing the differences between us. It is precisely these qualities that make us unique and exceptional. Gender equality is about ensuring that we all have the opportunity to act and feel the way we want to.. And so that we can stand up for it.
- It is very important for women to get into the habit of attending such events. Not only to gain new experiences and information, but also to show society that they are here, that they want to listen, and that they want to speak out on important issues. And especially on topics that sometimes affect them more than any of us.
“It was amazing. I learned a lot of new things and gained valuable life lessons. Thanks to what I learned there, I can now encourage other women. I can tell them who they can turn to when they experience violence and who can offer them advice.”
“The discussion was a positive experience for me, and I believe that if you really want to, anything can change. It gave me confidence, and if possible, I’d do it again in the future. I’m glad this kind of support exists for women; it definitely gives them confidence that they’re not alone and that someone is there to lend a helping hand and provide emotional support.”
