Misogyny is creeping out from the shadows of the media as Louis Theroux shines a torch on the male influencers in the media who are behind the rise of these controversial views.
“You dictate when the sandwiches come by my dictation.” Is one of the many unnerving statements made by the male influences in Louis Theroux’s new documentary.
This has led women in society to feel uncomfortable and concerned in response to the concepts and ideologies of these influencers in ‘Inside the Manosphere’.
Have women across the board been left in fear that these views will re-emerge in society after the release?
Local women reflect on this question by sharing their thoughts on the new documentary. One local resident from Coleraine town said, “It actually made me feel sick,” she continued, “I’m just hoping and praying that there aren’t many of them out there.”
Another local female said, “It being said so loudly into such a big group of people, especially young boys who are very easily influenced, I think, is incredibly damaging “
Women’s Aid stated that the manosphere is directly linked to a 37% rise in violence against women and girls.
‘Inside the Manosphere made for uncomfortable yet absolutely essential viewing,’ is what Women’s Aid stated in response to the documentary.
The article further reinforces the view that the documentary’s outlook is inappropriate. They said, ‘The reality is that misogyny is, and should always be, completely unacceptable.’ They add, ‘The influencers’ alleged success comes hand in hand with misogyny.’
In an interview with People magazine, Louis Theroux said that the male influencers in his new documentary are “preying on young men.”
People call for action.
Dr Colm Walsh, creator of the Y Box Programme. The Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime described the model as an ‘evidence-based programme that works with young men aged 12-21 to explore the themes of masculinity and violence.’
It is also described as a ‘framework for young men to reflect on their relationship with violence.’
When the project was developed in 2024, Dr Walsh said, “Violence is the most experienced trauma for young people in Northern Ireland, with young men at higher risk of being a victim or perpetrator or both.”
In the same statement, he said, “This model will provide a tool for practitioners to help young men and boys understand their relationships with violence and practice non-violent alternatives.”
In a subsequent interview, Dr Walsh said, “After measuring the impact of it, we have seen significant reductions in violence and more positive attitudes towards women and girls.”
The Y-Box Programme serves as a positive, reflective space for young men to improve their attitudes and behaviours towards violence, whether towards women and girls or themselves.
The End Violence Against Women and Girls campaign (EVAWG), run by the Northern Ireland Executive, had a Change Fund Grant Programme open from 19 February to 20 March 2026.
The Northern Ireland Executive Change Fund outlines three main outcomes, which include:
Outcome 1: Changed attitudes, behaviours, and culture – Everyone in society understands what violence against women and girls is, including its root causes, and plays an active role in preventing it.
Outcome 2: Healthy, respectful relationships – Everyone in society is equipped and empowered to enjoy healthy, respectful relationships.
Outcome 3: Women and girls are safe and feel safe everywhere – Organisations and institutions across government and society embed the prevention of violence against women and girls in all that they do, so that women and girls are safe and feel safe everywhere.
EVAWG’s Strategic Framework addresses the wide range of gender-based violence, abuse and harm that is experienced by women and girls.
Louis Theroux’s ‘Inside the Manosphere’ offers a glimpse into the resurgence of misogyny in some aspects of society.
In what the media is now describing as an emerging femicide epidemic, is a more prominent call to action needed?
The domestic and sexual abuse helpline is open 24/7 every day. Call 0808 802 1414, email help@dsahelpline.org or use their webchat service.
