GBVF is a societal crisis that demands collective action
GBVF remains a national emergency in South Africa, destroying lives and futures. Ending it requires every sector and every citizen to act decisively.
South Africa continues to confront one of the highest rates of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) in the world. Official figures show thousands of women murdered and assaulted each year, while unreported cases push the true scale far higher. Children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities suffer disproportionately in this cycle of harm.
GBVF is not a women’s issue alone; it is a societal crisis that erodes families, communities, and the nation’s pursuit of equality and safety. The department of women, youth, and persons with disabilities stresses that prevention and rights advocacy form the foundation of any effective response.
Read more: Men call for recognition in GBV fight
The persistence of violence stems from entrenched harmful norms, inequality, and insufficient collective accountability. Declaring GBVF a national disaster was an important milestone, yet words must be matched by sustained, cross-sector action.
Ending the scourge depends on unified responsibility. Government, business, community groups, and faith-based organisations must mobilise together. Every incident should be reported promptly to protect vulnerable people, deter perpetrators, and interrupt repeat offending. Businesses, communities, and religious leaders are urged to champion behaviour change by confronting stereotypes, patriarchal attitudes, and cultural practices that enable violence, while actively building cultures of respect and zero tolerance.
Also read: Youth event breaks GBV silence
Men hold a decisive role in turning the tide. The appeal is direct: Stand up, speak out, and model respectful behaviour in families and public spaces. Raise sons who understand that women deserve dignity and safety. Intervene when abuse occurs, support survivors, and hold peers to account. True strength lies in rejecting violence and contributing to safer communities.
South Africa’s vision of a nation that works for all by 2030 includes the empowerment of women, youth, and persons with disabilities and the eradication of violence. The path forward is clear: Report incidents. Challenge harmful norms. Advocate for respect. Mobilise networks and influence.
Silence sustains the problem. Collective action ends it.
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