LETTER:
The United Nations led 16 Days of No Violence against Women and Children has fallen on deaf ears as the slaughter of women and children continues unabated.
The umbrage felt by the world is staggering. Gender-based violence (GBV) is a serious violation of human rights and a life-threatening issue for the victims. It is estimated that one in three women will experience sexual or physical violence in their lifetime. During 2017, 87 000 women internationally were murdered. In South Africa, a woman is murdered every three hours, and many are assaulted and raped before they are killed.
Our recent history is replete with brutal and unprovoked violence against women and these mindless acts have taken a toll on broader society as well.
Many perpetrators have been able to get away with their crimes without any form of legal sanction to punish them and to serve as a deterrence to others.
Women live in an insecure world filled with fear. They continue to endure unprecedented violence. Their harrowing ordeals are largely untold, unseen and unheard. Strong investigative and disciplinary mechanisms must be put in place to deal with those who commit gender-based violence. Society must wrap its beloved women in the healing garments of reverence and respect.
FAROUK ARAIE
Benoni
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