Can relate mean react/respond/deal with

[KLPNO]

Hello everyone,

Gender, war and militarism: making and questioning the links - BIROn - Birkbeck Institutional Research Online

The gender dynamics of militarism have traditionally been seen as straightforward, given the cultural mythologies of warfare and the disciplining of ‘masculinity’ that occurs in the training and use of men's capacity for violence in the armed services. However, women's relation to both war and peace has been varied and complex. It is women who have often been most prominent in working for peace, although there are no necessary links between women and opposition to militarism. In addition, more women than ever are serving in many of today's armies, with feminists rather uncertain on how to relate to this phenomenon.

Does "relate to this phenomenon" mean "react to this phenomenon" and if yes, is it a usual usage?

Thank you.

 

[White Hat]

In addition, more women than ever are serving in many of today's armies, with feminists rather uncertain on how to relate to this phenomenon.

It means that feminists are not sure whether to uphold it or wince at it.

 

[KLPNO]

Thank you, Bennevis.