International Mens Day

International Mens Day History

International Men's Day (IMD) is an annual global observance aimed at promoting awareness of men's issues and fostering gender equality. It focuses on men's contributions to society, their well-being, and the challenges they face in various aspects of life. The main pillars of IMD include promoting positive male role models, addressing issues such as health, mental well-being, and toxic masculinity, and raising awareness of discrimination against men.

The International Men's Day concept was conceived by Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh in 1999 in Trinidad and Tobago. In the European Union, the observance brings increased attention to men's physical and mental health issues, the role of family life in men's lives, and male susceptibility to risk-taking behaviours that often lead to higher rates of accidents and suicide. Additionally, this holiday addresses disparities in education, employment opportunities, and parental rights, which affect men across the European Union.

To observe International Men's Day in the European Union, various activities and events are organized to promote awareness of the importance of men's health and well-being. These may include conferences, seminars, workshops, and other awareness-raising events. Public institutions, non-governmental organizations, schools, and other stakeholders organize these events to initiate dialogue and encourage meaningful conversations on topics related to men's issues. International Men's Day is typically observed on November 19, providing an opportunity for European Union communities to unite and support men in their quest for an equal and healthy life.

International Mens Day facts

• The theme for International Men's Day in 2023 was Zero Male Suicide.
• Men are three times more likely to die from suicide than women.
• International Men's Day structures its objectives as 6 pillars:
  1) To promote positive male role models
  2) To celebrate men's positive contributions to society
  3) To focus on men's health and wellbeing
  4) To highlight discrimination against men
  5) To improve gender relations and promote gender equality
  6) To create a safer, better world
• Men make up a significant portion of migrants and refugees arriving in the European Union, although the gender distribution may vary depending on the specific migration flow.
• In the European Union, men have a lower life expectancy compared to women. The average life expectancy for men is about 78.2 years, while for women, it is about 83.7 years.

In the News and Trending in the EU for International Mens Day

Top things to do in the EU for International Mens Day

• Award a positive male role model or someone who inspires you with an International Men's Day certificate. For instructions on making one, go to IMD Award Certificates .
• Raise awareness on social media by using the tags #internationalmensday, #celebratemen, #menshealth, #stopmalesuicide, and #thankamantoday
• Use this day as an opportunity to educate yourself and others about gender stereotypes and inequalities. Share informative articles, documentaries, or books on social media or in online discussions.
• Plan a video conference with your male friends, family members, or colleagues. Discuss topics that are important to men's well-being, such as mental health, fatherhood, or career challenges.