A growing network of toxic online communities, known as the “manosphere,” is spreading misogyny and endangering progress toward global gender equality, warns UN Women.
With over 5.5 billion internet users, social media platforms now play a central role in shaping public opinion. They influence identity and even policy making worldwide.
But these same platforms are being weaponized. Misogynistic ideologies are no longer fringe — they’re infiltrating schoolyards, workplaces, and even private relationships, with misogyny becoming more prevalent.
THE MANOSPHERE: A NEW FRONT IN THE FIGHT FOR EQUALITY
The manosphere was once limited to obscure internet forums. Now it includes influencers promoting harmful masculinity. This is often done under the guise of self-help or dating advice, with elements of misogyny embedded.
These creators often prey on young men’s insecurities. They offer validation while subtly (or overtly) attacking feminism. They also target women’s rights and gender equality efforts.
BOYS ARE SEEKING GUIDANCE — AND FINDING HATE
According to the Movember Foundation, nearly two-thirds of young men follow online masculinity influencers. While some offer support, many spread toxic ideas, with misogyny becoming a troubling theme.
Boys seeking identity and purpose are exposed to extreme content portraying men as victims of feminism and women as deceitful or dangerous.
ALGORITHMS REWARD MISOGYNY — AND AMPLIFY IT
Social media algorithms prioritize polarizing content. As a result, extreme misogynistic views often gain massive reach, especially among vulnerable or impressionable audiences.
Anonymity further fuels abuse, making it harder to track perpetrators and easier to normalize hate speech and sexist ideology in online spaces, contributing to the spread of misogyny.
Misogyny Online Spills Into Real Life
The consequences extend far beyond the internet. Studies show that mass shooters and extremists often consume manosphere content linking gender hate with broader radical views that include misogyny.
These online ideologies are being echoed in politics, influencing legislation, and trivializing gender-based violence around the world.
A Crisis for Democracy and Mental Health
UN Women emphasizes that toxic digital spaces silence women, especially in journalism and politics. Fear of abuse keeps many from speaking out online.
But the damage doesn’t stop there. Harmful gender stereotypes, fueled by misogyny, create anxiety for boys, discouraging vulnerability and distorting healthy identity development.
What Can Be Done? A Rights-Based, Multi-Level Response
UN Women is scaling up a global response. Their approach includes:
- Supporting survivors of online abuse.
- Advocating for stronger digital safety regulations.
- Promoting education around healthy masculinity.
- Engaging youth with resilience-focused programming.
- Encouraging media to spotlight and counter toxic trends.
Education Is the Most Powerful Tool We Have
Teaching children and teens about gender equality, respect, and digital responsibility can prevent harmful beliefs, including misogyny, from forming in the first place.
“It’s not just about protecting girls,” said Kalliopi Mingeirou of UN Women. “It’s about freeing everyone from toxic gender pressures.”