03/11/2026
Listen Back: Fast Forward to : 35:42
Yesterday morning, Donna Marie Doherty interviewed our Interim Assistant Manager Donegal Domestic Violence Services, Fiona Jordan, on the Greg Hughes Show, discussing the growing concerns surrounding the Manosphere and why its harmful influence must be recognised and addressed as a public health issue. The rise of harmful online content promoting misogyny, male dominance, control and entitlement towards women is deeply concerning. These messages can exploit the vulnerabilities of a small cohort of young men and boys, influencing how they view women, relationships and their own identities. When young people are exposed to messages suggesting that men are entitled to power, dominance and control over women, it can shape their understanding of what is acceptable behaviour in relationships. This is particularly frightening when these harmful attitudes are normalised and reinforced through social media and online communities. We know from the women we support that misogyny, coercive control and harmful attitudes towards women are not simply online issues. They have very real consequences. Women have experienced, and continue to experience, the devastating impact of controlling, abusive and degrading behaviours in their everyday lives. This is why education on healthy relationships is so important for both boys and girls, young men and young women. We must create opportunities for young people to learn about respect, equality, consent, healthy boundaries and what a safe, supportive relationship looks like. We also need to equip young people with the skills to critically question the content they encounter online, recognise harmful messages and understand that dominance, control and entitlement have no place in a healthy relationship. Education, early intervention and prevention must be at the heart of our response. These are key priorities within Ireland's Third National Strategy on Domestic, Sexual and Gender Based Violence, which recognises the importance of preventing violence and abuse before they occur, challenging harmful attitudes and promoting a culture of equality and respect. We cannot wait until harmful attitudes develop into abusive behaviours. We need to start these conversations early, in our schools, homes, communities and online spaces. This is not about blaming boys or young men. It is about protecting them from harmful influences, supporting them to develop positive identities and ensuring that all young people understand the importance of mutual respect and equality. Healthy relationships education is not an optional extra. It is an essential part of preventing domestic, sexual and gender-based violence and creating safer futures for everyone.
Thank you to Donna Marie Doherty and the Greg Hughes Show for providing a platform for this important conversation.
