The social problem of men in Europe: The social problem and societal problematisation of men and masculinities: "The social problem of men" Policy Option Paper 1

In March 2000, the European Research Network on Men in Europe project entitled “The Social Problem and Societal Problematisation of Men and Masculinities” (HPSE-CT-1999-0008) was initiated. The project, planned for three years (2000–2003), is funded by the Research Directorate of the European Commission under its Framework 5 Programme.

The overall aim of the Research Network is to develop empirical, theoretical and policy outcomes on the gendering of men and masculinities. The Research Network has focused on two closely related gendered questions:
• first, the specific, gendered social problem of men and certain masculinities; and,
• second, the more general, gendered societal problematisation of men and certain masculinities.

This work is primarily contextualised in terms of welfare responses to social problems and inequalities. It also has direct relevance to policy outcomes in relation to changing family structures; and work configurations within the labour market, the home and wider European society.