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PAP SUMMIT

Disrupting Generational

Join the movement to challenge and dismantle
patriarchal structures for a more equitable future.
WHAT IS PATRIARCHY

A Comprehensive Overview of Male Dominance in Society

Patriarchy is derived from the Greek term ‘patriarkhēs,’ which translates to ‘the rule of the father.’ It denotes a social system where men hold a disproportionate share of power across various sectors including social, economic, political, and religious domains.

WHO WE ARE

Our Founder

Leher Sethi
LEHER  SETHI
Founder
Roopam Gupta
ROOPAM GUPTA
Co-founder
Dr Sanjukta Basu
Co-Founder
Advisors on board

Advisors Associated
to Paps Summit

Yogita Bhayana

Founder – People Against Rape in India (PARI)

Yogita Bhayana is a well-known anti-rape activist in India, who heads People Against Rape in India, an organization that seeks to support rape survivors and help them get justice for their assailants.
Khurafati Nitin

Creative Director – GAAS Media

Khurafati Nitin is a stalwart of the radio industry with over 25 years experience to his credit as a leading Radio Jockey of prominent FM Stations. He is an RJ, Actor, Stage Host/Emcee, Story Teller, Content Strategist and a Food Critic.
EVENT DETAILS

Welcome to PAPS Summit

1

Explores the concept of marital rape, examining the legal definitions and societal perceptions surrounding consent within marriage. This includes the lack of legal recognition in many jurisdictions, leading to ongoing debates on women’s rights and the need for legal reform.

2

THE TROLLING SAGA: PATRIARCHY & MYSOGINY ONLINE
Discusses the prevalence of online harassment, particularly against women, highlighting how patriarchal structures manifest in digital spaces. Examples include trolling, doxxing, and the impact of these actions on women’s participation in online discourse.

3

DIVERSITY IN THE WORKFORCE: NEW WORLD, OLD CHALLENGES
Addresses the challenges faced in enforcing gender equity in the workplace including but not limited to wage disparities, a lack of representation in leadership, gender stereotypes, sexual harassment, and difficulties balancing work and life. This session aims to look at different perspectives from panelists representing all genders.

4

SELF STIGMA OF MASCULINITY: Emotional Suppression & Other Effects of Patriarchy on Men
Addresses the challenges faced in enforcing gender equity in the workplace including but not limited to wage disparities, a lack of representation in leadership, gender stereotypes, sexual harassment, and difficulties balancing work and life. This session aims to look at different perspectives from panelists representing all genders.

5

BREAKING THE SILENCE AROUND SEXUAL HARASSMENT: The Perils and Pitfalls
Focuses on the challenges faced by survivors of sexual harassment in speaking out, including fears of retaliation and victim-blaming. This discussion emphasizes the importance of support systems and societal change to create safe environments for victims.

6

PATRIARCHY IN CINEMA: Enforcing Toxic Stereotypes & Objectification of Women’s Bodies
Critiques the portrayal of women in film and media, examining how patriarchal narratives perpetuate harmful stereotypes and objectification. This session advocates for more authentic representation of women and the need to challenge these narratives within the entertainment industry.

Supporting the People Against Patriarchy Summit has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Seeing the impact of my contribution in fostering conversations on gender equality and inclusivity gives me hope for a better future.

Ananya S. Founder

Attending the People Against Patriarchy Summit was a life-changing experience. The discussions were powerful, the speakers were insightful, and the energy in the room was electrifying. A must-attend event for anyone passionate about gender equality!

Ravi K Supporter

This summit provided a safe space for critical conversations on dismantling patriarchy. The workshops and panel discussions were thought-provoking, and I left feeling empowered and hopeful for a better future.

Priya M. Contributor
SPEAKER NOTES

An Unforgettable Experience! A Must-Attend Summit!

The summit was empowering, insightful, and transformative! Engaging discussions, inspiring speakers, and a vibrant community made it truly unforgettable.
WHAT IS PATRIARCHY

Understanding Patriarchy

Patriarchy is derived from the Greek term ‘patriarkhēs,’ which translates to ‘the rule of the father.’ It denotes a social system where men hold a disproportionate share of power across various sectors including social, economic, political, and religious domains.

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Definition of Patriarchy

Patriarchy is derived from the Greek term 'patriarkhēs,' which translates to 'the rule of the father.' It denotes a social system where men hold a disproportionate share of power across various sectors including social, economic, political, and religious domains.

Social System of Male Control

In a patriarchal system, men dominate women and control significant aspects of society. This includes the distribution of wealth, political influence, and religious authority, which are often skewed in favor of men.

Ideology of Male Superiority

The ideology that underpins patriarchy asserts male superiority over women. It posits that women should be controlled by men and often views women as property or extensions of male authority.

Inheritance Practices

In patriarchal societies, inheritance typically follows the male line. This practice ensures that wealth and power remain within male lineage, further entrenching male dominance.

Religious Justifications

Many religious doctrines have historically supported patriarchal structures, promoting the idea that men are the rightful leaders and that women should occupy subordinate roles within both family and society.

Control Over Women's Lives

Patriarchal systems often confine women to the domestic sphere, controlling various aspects of their lives, from their roles in the household to their freedom in public spaces.

Impact on Women's Rights

The prevalence of patriarchy has significant implications for women's rights, leading to systemic inequalities that affect women's access to education, employment, and political representation.

Subordination Techniques

Patriarchy employs various techniques to keep women subordinate, including societal norms, legislation, and cultural practices that limit women's choices and freedoms.

GET INVOLVE NOW

The Impact of Patriarchy on
Women's Advancement

Definition of Patriarchy
Patriarchy is defined as a societal system that oppresses and subordinates women in both private and public spheres. This systemic oppression manifests in various ways, including economic, social, and political inequalities, which hinder women’s full participation in society.
Obstacle to Women's Advancement
Patriarchy is recognized as the most significant barrier to women’s advancement and development. It operates as an effective tool to control women’s lives, limiting their opportunities and reinforcing their subservience across different sectors.
Women’s Participation in Patriarchy
Interestingly, many women also partake in the patriarchal system, either by conforming to traditional roles or by internalizing patriarchal values that further perpetuate their subordination. This complicates the struggle for equality and advancement.
UN Warning on Patriarchy
During the Sixty-Eighth session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, the UN Secretary-General emphasized that ‘Patriarchy Is Regaining Ground.’ This statement underscores the urgent need to address the resurgence of patriarchal norms that threaten women’s rights.
Threats to Women’s and Girls’ Rights
The UN Secretary-General’s warning highlights the unprecedented threats faced by women’s and girls’ rights in the current socio-political climate. These threats require immediate attention and action from policymakers and advocates worldwide.
Context of the UN Commission Session
As the Commission opened its 2024 session, the focus on patriarchy and its impacts on women’s rights became increasingly critical. This setting serves as a platform to advocate for policies and measures to combat the forces of patriarchy.
Challenges Faced

Current Threats to Women's Rights

Rising sexual violence in conflict globally
Sexual violence in conflict zones is increasingly prevalent, posing significant threats to the safety and rights of women and girls around the world.
Remarks by UN Secretary-General António Guterres on patriarchy
In his opening remarks, António Guterres emphasized that patriarchy remains a strong force, suggesting that rather than diminishing, it is regaining influence globally.
The attack on women's rights through 'traditional values' by autocrats
Autocratic leaders and populist movements are using the guise of ‘traditional values’ to undermine women’s sexual and reproductive rights, posing a direct challenge to gender equality.
Concerns about future rights for women and girls
Guterres raised concerns that future generations, including granddaughters, may face fewer rights than their grandmothers, highlighting the regress in women’s rights.
The replication of power relations in digital technologies
The inequalities and power dynamics experienced in physical spaces are being mirrored in digital platforms, further complicating the landscape of women’s rights.
Poverty and Women's Labor

Exploring the Intersection of Gender
and Economic Inequality

Poverty has a female face globally.

It is essential to recognize that poverty disproportionately affects women around the world, highlighting gender inequalities in economic opportunities and resources.

Women's invisible domestic labor subsidizes the economy.

The unpaid domestic work that women perform, often overlooked, plays a crucial role in sustaining the economy. This includes child-rearing, elder care, and household maintenance.

Limited access to resources.

Women generally have less access to land, natural resources, and financial assets compared to men, which exacerbates their economic vulnerabilities.

GET INVOLVE NOW

Exploring the Hidden Costs of
a Patriarchal Society

01

Deep-seated Patriarchal Mentalities Despite progress in various fields, women in India still contend with deeply ingrained patriarchal attitudes that limit their potential and opportunities.

02

Internalized Patriarchal Norms and the Impact on self-worth Many men and women internalize societal norms that reinforce roles for both men and women. These specified for women impacts their self-esteem and belief in their capabilities, leading to a cycle of dependency. Once the patriarchy gets into our heads, it affects the way we perceive and judge our self, our relationships and the world we live in. Men could experience their vulnerability as weak and shameful, leading to a stifling of emotions, resulting in a disconnect from one's true self. It inadvertently harms the mental health of all genders and often leads to misogyny and toxic masculinity.

03

Barriers to Empowerment and Autonomy These patriarchal norms create significant barriers, restricting women's autonomy and empowerment, making it difficult for them to make choices about their lives.

04

Dictation of Roles Within Families and Gender Stereotyping Patriarchal structures often dictate men and women's roles within families, limiting women’s involvement in decision-making processes and reinforcing gender inequalities, stereotypes and biases. It also adds pressure on men to be providers.

06

Need for Education and Awareness Addressing these challenges requires a focus on education and awareness initiatives that empower all genders and challenge traditional norms.

07

Need for Systemic Change to Dismantle Patriarchy A concerted effort towards systemic change is essential to dismantle the entrenched patriarchal structures that perpetuate gender inequality in society.
Hidden Costs of a Patriarchal Society

Understanding the Negative Effects of
Patriarchy on Men

The Emotional Burden of Rigid Standards

Patriarchy enforces strict emotional standards on men, which can lead to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. The societal expectation that men should be tough and stoic prevents them from expressing vulnerability, ultimately harming their emotional well-being.

Impact on Relationships

The pressure to conform to patriarchal norms can hinder men's ability to form meaningful and intimate relationships. Men may struggle to communicate their feelings, leading to isolation and shallow connections with others.

Hindered Self-Expression

Patriarchy restricts men's ability to express their true selves. Fear of judgment and societal backlash can cause men to suppress their identities, leading to internal conflict and a lack of authenticity in their lives.

Societal Expectations and Performance Pressure

Men often face immense pressure to succeed in their roles as providers and protectors. This performance pressure can lead to stress and burnout, further exacerbating mental health challenges.

Negative Consequences for Mental Health

The rigid norms of patriarchy contribute to a range of psychological issues among men. The inability to process emotions and seek help can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as substance abuse or aggression.

Exploring the Hidden Costs of a Patriarchal Society

Strategies for Dismantling Patriarchy

Questioning Societal Foundations

To effectively dismantle patriarchy, it is essential to critically evaluate the societal norms and structures that uphold it. This involves recognizing how these foundations have been built on gender biases and perpetuate inequality, while understanding the historical context that has allowed these systems to thrive.

Unlearning Generational Teachings

Many individuals are unconsciously conditioned by generational teachings that support patriarchal structures. Unlearning these ingrained beliefs is crucial in order to foster a more equitable society. This process includes engaging in self-reflection and education to challenge personal biases and perspectives.

Challenging Cultures and Traditions
Patriarchy is often reinforced through cultural practices and traditions. To dismantle these, we must actively challenge and critique cultural norms that promote the subjugation of other genders. This requires open dialogue and advocacy for change within communities.
Raising Awareness of Inequities
Many individuals navigate life unaware of the biases and inequities they encounter daily. Raising awareness about these issues is vital for fostering empathy and understanding. Educational campaigns and workshops can help illuminate the subtle ways in which gender inequity manifests in everyday life.
Empowering Diverse Voices
Dismantling patriarchy involves amplifying the voices of those who are often marginalized. Empowering women and gender-diverse individuals to speak out and advocate for their rights is a crucial step towards achieving gender equality. This includes supporting initiatives that prioritize their leadership and participation in decision-making processes.
Building Supportive Communities

Creating communities that support gender equity and inclusivity is essential. This involves fostering environments where individuals feel safe to express their thoughts, experiences and challenges related to gender issues. Support networks can help individuals navigate their journeys while advocating for equality.

Engaging in Activism

Active engagement in advocacy and activism is a powerful way to challenge patriarchy. Individuals can participate in marches, campaigns, and organizations that promote gender equality. This collective action can bring about significant societal change and inspire others to join the movement.

EVENT DETAILS

Celebrating Women Empowerment

2nd

APRIL
– 2nd April 2025 around International Women’s Day, focusing on Women Empowerment and Gender Parity.

1

Explores the concept of marital rape, examining the legal definitions and societal perceptions surrounding consent within marriage. This includes the lack of legal recognition in many jurisdictions, leading to ongoing debates on women’s rights and the need for legal reform.

2

THE TROLLING SAGA: PATRIARCHY & MYSOGINY ONLINE
Discusses the prevalence of online harassment, particularly against women, highlighting how patriarchal structures manifest in digital spaces. Examples include trolling, doxxing, and the impact of these actions on women’s participation in online discourse.

3

DIVERSITY IN THE WORKFORCE: NEW WORLD, OLD CHALLENGES
Addresses the challenges faced in enforcing gender equity in the workplace including but not limited to wage disparities, a lack of representation in leadership, gender stereotypes, sexual harassment, and difficulties balancing work and life. This session aims to look at different perspectives from panelists representing all genders.

4

SELF STIGMA OF MASCULINITY: Emotional Suppression & Other Effects of Patriarchy on Men
Addresses the challenges faced in enforcing gender equity in the workplace including but not limited to wage disparities, a lack of representation in leadership, gender stereotypes, sexual harassment, and difficulties balancing work and life. This session aims to look at different perspectives from panelists representing all genders.

5

BREAKING THE SILENCE AROUND SEXUAL HARASSMENT: The Perils and Pitfalls
Focuses on the challenges faced by survivors of sexual harassment in speaking out, including fears of retaliation and victim-blaming. This discussion emphasizes the importance of support systems and societal change to create safe environments for victims.

6

PATRIARCHY IN CINEMA: Enforcing Toxic Stereotypes & Objectification of Women’s Bodies
Critiques the portrayal of women in film and media, examining how patriarchal narratives perpetuate harmful stereotypes and objectification. This session advocates for more authentic representation of women and the need to challenge these narratives within the entertainment industry.

Let's change the world, Join us now!

Be part of a transformative movement! The People Against Patriarchy Summit empowers voices, sparks change, and unites activists. Join us to challenge norms, inspire action, and build an equal future!

Reach us !

#PAPSummit2025

2nd April 2025

India Habitat Centre

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