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The Call to Action Against Gender-Based Violence in South Africa
In November 2025, President Cyril Ramaphosa declared gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide a national disaster in South Africa, a decision that echoed the frustrations of civil society advocates who have long fought for urgent action. However, the lack of substantial follow-through since this pivotal announcement raises crucial questions about the government’s commitment to truly tackling this crisis. Merely stating that GBV is a disaster without a clear action plan risks falling into a cycle of unfulfilled promises, a pattern that hampers progress in addressing this dire issue.
The Role of Partnerships in Combating Gender-Based Violence
What is needed now is not just rhetoric, but effective partnerships across sectors. Violence against women is a pervasive issue that demands collaboration among government agencies, NGOs, the private sector, and research institutions. According to the 2016 Diagnostic Review, civil society organizations currently provide about 60% of vital social services for women and children, yet their efforts have often been stymied by funding delays and a lack of trust from government entities. This long-standing friction significantly undermines the capacity for effective intervention.
Lessons from Successful Models
Effective frameworks that already exist can guide future actions. The National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (NSP), introduced in 2020, serves as a roadmap for addressing this crisis. With six pillars, including prevention and justice, the NSP emphasizes the need for coordinated implementation, which calls for renewed partnerships between state and civil society organizations. Moreover, practical models such as the Saartjie Baartman Centre for Women and Children illustrate how comprehensive, multi-service centres can effectively address the immediate and longer-term needs of survivors.
The Ground Reality
Despite some constructive outcomes, like the establishment of Thuthuzela Care Centres and increased funding for NGOs, many challenges remain. The 2022 gender-based violence prevalence study revealed disconcerting statistics: one in three women in South Africa has experienced physical violence. This pervasive crisis is indicative of entrenched social norms and systemic issues that require a multifaceted response. Research shows that early exposure to violence can create a vicious cycle where individuals may grow into either victims or perpetrators. The need for a robust and fully funded educational and support framework is more urgent than ever.
Looking Ahead: Building Trust for Sustainable Solutions
To achieve tangible improvements, rebuilding trust between the state and civil society is essential. Engaging men and boys as allies in addressing harmful gender norms must be a cornerstone of any future strategies. The G20 Women’s Shutdown protests illustrated that voices for the cause are growing louder, uniting not only South Africans but resonating on a global level. As the G20 flip further momentum into action, now is the perfect opportunity to transform governmental declarations into real, actionable commitments.
Addressing gender-based violence in South Africa requires a cohesive strategy that dovetails the national declaration with grassroots mobilization. Strong partnerships must be forged to ensure that women can live free from fear and violence, embracing a future of equality and dignity.
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