The challenge
Misogyny among young men in the UK is a growing concern, shaped by online influences, social alienation and unmet mental health and wellbeing needs. This sits within a wider context of persistently high levels of violence against women and girls (VAWG), which the National Audit Office has described as an “epidemic”.
While stronger laws play a role, punitive responses alone cannot address the social, structural and cultural factors that contribute to misogyny. Sustainable change requires upstream prevention that addresses these root causes, supports men and boys, as well as women and girls, promotes positive masculinities, and prevents violence and harm before it occurs.
Our approach
The Misogyny Policy Project believes in a coordinated, preventative systems approach to tackling online misogyny and promoting men’s mental health. It recognises these as distinct but interconnected challenges, shaped by shared underlying drivers. The project identifies practical action across five connected policy areas:
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Schools and education settings: Build digital and emotional literacy sustainably and support connection and belonging.
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Tech regulation: Strengthen platform accountability for harmful content and its amplification, while supporting healthier online environments and connection-building.
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Mental health services: Expand male-friendly prevention, early support and services.
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Pro-social offline and online spaces: Invest in pro-social communities, trusted relationships and mentorship for boys and young men.
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Employment and skills: Strengthen economic pathways, opportunities and a sense of purpose.
A detailed list of the policy actions in each of these areas can be found in our Landmark Policy Roadmap Report here, Reconnecting Boys and Young Men: A Policy Roadmap to Prevent Online Misogyny & Promote Men’s Mental Health
This Project complements existing work being done in communities by focusing specifically on the UK policy space.