International Men’s Day, celebrated on November 19, is over 30 years old and was first acknowledged in 1992. It is just as important as International Women’s Day, even though it receives far less recognition. While women’s achievements and struggles are rightly celebrated around the world, men also face unique challenges—mental health pressures, societal expectations, and emotional suppression—that deserve attention and support.
Importantly, International Men’s Day also includes boys. Young boys experience early forms of societal pressure, expectations, and emotional limitations that can shape their well-being into adulthood. Recognising boys on this day helps highlight the need to support their confidence, mental health, education, and emotional expression from an early age.
This day highlights the value of men and boys as friends, sons, fathers, role models, caregivers, and contributors to their communities, while encouraging conversations about well-being, vulnerability, and fairness. Observing International Men’s Day is not about competing with women’s recognition; it’s about reinforcing that gender equality includes everyone.
Equality means supporting everyone, celebrating contributions equally, and addressing challenges fairly. Recognising men and boys alongside women and girls helps build a fairer, more inclusive world for all.
