THE PROJECT
In recent years, schools in Austria and Germany have reported a noticeable rise in gender-based discrimination, verbal aggression, and polarising behaviours linked to anti-feminist and authoritarian attitudes. Teachers, school psychologists, and social workers increasingly face situations in which students express or enact rigid gender hierarchies, hostility toward women’s rights, or idealised forms of male dominance. These tendencies not only undermine equality and inclusion in the classroom but also disrupt teaching and erode the social climate of schools.
Manifestations of anti-feminism and toxic masculinity among students are often influenced by online subcultures and ideologically driven narratives. Influencers from both far-right and religious extremist milieus promote harmful gender norms that glorify control, dominance, and violence, while undermining empathy, equality, and democratic participation.These narratives are actively consumed by young people across social media platforms and are increasingly visible in school environments.
At the same time, there are only few resources available for school professionals to respond effectively to such challenges. Educators often lack practical tools to sufficiently understand the origins of these behaviours, identify early warning signs, or take meaningful action in classroom settings. This gap is particularly striking given the growing demand from practitioners and education administrators for targeted support, training, and guidance.
AFETS responds to this need by supporting secondary schools with training and materials that address anti-feminism and toxic masculinity as interrelated phenomena. It places gender equality and the promotion of democratic values at the core of school climate and wellbeing. Developed by SCENOR and IZRD, the project brings together research expertise, pedagogical methods, and counselling experience to strengthen the capacity of school professionals to intervene constructively and with confidence.
OBJECTIVES
AFETS aims to strengthen the capacity of schools to address anti-feminism and toxic masculinity in everyday practice. The project promotes a positive school climate where gender equality and democratic values are upheld, and where educators are equipped to respond confidently to challenging situations.
A central objective is to deepen understanding among teachers, school psychologists, and social workers of the origins and manifestations of anti-feminism and toxic masculinity. By engaging with the ideologies, narratives, and online subcultures that shape students’ attitudes, educators gain a clearer picture of how harmful gender norms develop and why they resonate with young people. This knowledge enables them to recognise problematic behaviours earlier and to address them with appropriate strategies.
Equally important is the development of practical methods that educators can apply directly in their classrooms. AFETS develops interactive training sessions and materials that translate complex research into hands-on exercises, conversation techniques, and case-based guidance. The aim is not only to react to incidents but also to create learning opportunities that encourage students to reflect on gender norms, empathy, and respectful interaction. In this way, schools become safer and more inclusive spaces where all students can participate equally.
Finally, AFETS seeks to promote awareness of common European values, particularly the principle of gender equality. By integrating these values into teaching and school life, educators can foster democratic participation and civic engagement among young people. Students, parents, and the wider school community benefit from this approach, as it helps bridge the gap between classroom practice and social realities outside of school.
IMPACT
The AFETS project is designed to leave a lasting impact on schools in Austria and Germany by equipping professionals with the knowledge and tools to address harmful gender norms in a systematic way. Teachers, school psychologists, and social workers who participate in AFETS activities gain greater confidence in identifying anti-feminist and toxic masculine attitudes among students and are better prepared to respond constructively. This not only reduces the likelihood of gender-based conflicts and bullying but also contributes to a healthier and more inclusive learning environment.
Through training and tailored materials, the project supports educators in moving beyond ad-hoc reactions to incidents. Instead, they acquire strategies that allow them to address the underlying narratives and behaviours in a sustainable way. By integrating these approaches into everyday classroom practice, the project strengthens the overall resilience of schools against discriminatory attitudes and extremist influences.
The impact extends beyond professionals. Students benefit from an improved school climate where respect and equality are actively encouraged. They learn to critically reflect on harmful gender stereotypes and to recognise the value of empathy, dialogue, and democratic participation. Parents and the wider public also gain awareness of the risks posed by anti-egalitarian ideologies, creating more consistent support for young people inside and outside the school environment.
For the partner organisations, AFETS provides valuable insights into the needs of school professionals and the effectiveness of different training formats. These results feed into future projects and training programmes, ensuring that the knowledge and materials developed remain in use beyond the project’s duration. By linking with networks in prevention, education, and policy, AFETS also contributes to the broader European effort to safeguard schools as inclusive spaces where all young people can thrive.
DONOR
Disclaimer: Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the OeAD-GmbH. Neither the European Union nor the OeAD GmbH can be held responsible for them.