What is Gender-Based Violence (GBV), what are three of its forms, what is one law protecting victims in South Africa, and what are challenges faced by the police and justice system in addressing it?

Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is violence directed against an individual because of their gender. It is rooted in unequal power relations between genders and includes acts that inflict physical, mental, sexual, or economic harm or suffering, threats of such acts, coercion, and other deprivations of liberty. While it can affect anyone, it disproportionately impacts women and girls.

Three forms of GBV or human rights violations related to gender include:

• Domestic violence, which involves physical, emotional, or sexual abuse within a family or intimate relationship.
• Sexual assault or rape, which is any sexual act committed against someone without their explicit consent.
• Femicide, the intentional killing of women and girls because of their gender.

One specific law that protects victims of GBV in South Africa is the Domestic Violence Act 116 of 1998 (as amended by the Domestic Violence Amendment Act 14 of 2021). This act provides for the issuing of protection orders to victims of domestic violence.

While efforts are being made, many believe the local police and justice system face significant challenges in adequately protecting survivors. Issues such as insufficient training for officers, slow prosecution processes, and a lack of victim-centered approaches can lead to re-victimization and a lack of trust in the system.

For immediate help, a victim could be referred to the South African Police Service (SAPS) to report the crime and open a case. Additionally, the Department of Social Development provides social work services, counseling, and support to victims of violence.