Activism initiative should be a year-round issue

The 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children has ended but it is an issue that we should be conscious about it throughout the year.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently reported that one in three women experience sexual or physical violence in their lives. This works out to 35.6% of women worldwide and this violence is most likely perpetuated by their intimate partner. It is also a fact that approx. 38% of all murdered women are killed by an intimate partner. There are many cases which are not reported due to the victim feeling ashamed or for fear of further reprisals

South Africa faces crises as regards to violence against women and children. Rates of homicide, rape as well as childhood and domestic violence are far above those of other countries. The South African Medical Research Council (MDR) released information on the severity of the situation during 2012 revealing that over half the women of Gauteng (51.2%) have experienced some form of abuse (emotional, physical or sexual) in their lifetime and 78.3% of men in the province admit to perpetrating some form of violence against women. Furthermore it came to light that more than a third of girls have experienced sexual violence before the age of 18 and one in two children experience emotional abuse, neglect or witness violence against their mothers at home.

There are many reasons for this behaviour some which include the abuse of alcohol and drugs. Our country has one of the highest per capita alcohol consumption levels per drinker in the world. Violence is also often used to gain the sought after respect and power, whether through rape, severe punishment of children or violence against partners.

It is important for society to remain aware of the campaign throughout the year. Speak out against woman and child abuse, encourage silent female victims to talk about abuse and ensure that they get help, report child abuse and encourage children to report bully behaviour to school authorities.

In incidents where you think violence is being inflicted towards a woman or child contact any of the follwoing organisations:
National Crisis Helpline (Lifeline) 0861-322-322
Stop Gender-Based Violence Helpline 0800-150-150
People Opposed to Women Abuse 011-642-4345
Family and Marriage Society of South Africa 012-460-0733
National Network on Violence Against Women 012-321-4959
Childline 0800-055-555
Child Welfare 013-750-1001