Mourant

IBA Annual Conference Toronto 2025

2 Nov - 7 Nov 2025

Session information

Stuck in the woods - man vs bear? A divisive hypothetical or an uncomfortable truth?

Thursday 6 November (1615 - 1730)

Committee(s)

Diversity and Equality Law Committee (Lead)

Description

In May 2024, social media around the world lit up with the man vs bear debate, a viral trend where women were asked if they would rather be stuck in the forest with a man or a bear. While the debate angered many men, it also resonated with many women. The analogy brought gendered violence to the fore at a time when 30% of women worldwide have been subject to either physical and/or sexual violence in their lifetime. Violence against women is preventable, and employers have an important role to play as agents for change. This session reviews the role employers can play in driving powerful societal change in relation to gendered violence and harassment.