SYNERGY: The First Peer Learning Activity Gathers International Youth Leaders in Stockholm to Address Misogyny in Youth Work

On October 5–6, 2026, Fryshuset hosted a group of youth workers from Estonia, Iceland, the Netherlands, and Sweden for the first Peer Learning Activity (PLA 1) of the European Erasmus+ SYNERGY project. The two-day gathering in Stockholm focused on exchanging field-tested youth work practices to challenge extreme online misogyny, combat gender polarization, and critically discuss about gender norms.

Bridging Research, Policy, and On-the-Ground Youth Work

Many youth workers in Europe today face challenges when it comes to extreme misogynist narratives spread online, especially through “manosphere” influencers. In this context, the Synchronize Evidence and Practice to Prevent Misogyny Among Youth project aims to build a bridge between academic research and youth work. Coordinated by the Praxis Think Tank (Estonia) alongside the University of Iceland, Risbo (Netherlands), and Fryshuset (Sweden), the project’s goal is to assist youth workers across Europe with practical strategies and tools that combat misogyny in non-formal education.

Two Days of Visits and International Exchange

The Peer Learning Activity that took place at Fryshuset over the two days, provided international participants with direct insight into Swedish youth work methodologies.

During the first day, the group engaged directly with local practitioners working in marginalized environments. Knowledge sharing sessions were conducted by United Sisters and United Brothers, two Fryshuset programs creating safe spaces for youth, Passus & 180grader, initiatives supporting young people exiting organized crime, and Men for Equality (MÄN), a non-profit organisation actively working to redefine masculinities through a feminist lens.

The second day opened with a focus on communicating about consent and boundaries in relationships. Attendees learned about the work of Let’s Talk followed by an immersive exploration of The Fryshuset Way.

                             

The afternoon concluded participants analyzing key factors that could be transferable to their own practices, identified how and explored how these approaches can be adapted across national contexts in Estonia, Iceland, and the Netherlands.