What is Gender-based Violence (GBV)?
Gender-based violence (GBV) refers to harm or abuse that happens because of societal expectations about gender and unequal power dynamics. It can take many forms, including physical, sexual, verbal, emotional, and psychological abuse, as well as threats, coercion, and economic or educational control. GBV can happen in both public and private life, during peace or conflict, and can cause physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, or financial harm.
How can I get help?
There are various facilities and support networks available to victims of gender-based violence in South Africa. For counselling services, you can contact the GBV Command Centre (0800 428 428), the Gender Violence Helpline (0800 150 150), or the TEARS Foundation (*134*7355#). If you are a child in need of help, please contact Childline (116). For shelter, please reach out to the National Shelter Movement (0800 001 005). All hotlines operate 24/7 and are toll-free. For support for rape survivors, visit a Thuthuzela Care Centre (TCC) near you.
What are the Gender-based violence (GBV) statistics in South Africa?
One in three women will be sexually attacked. Two in five are beaten by their partners. Half will be sexually harassed at work. One in 15 murdered by their partner.
Source: Mail & Guardian
Is there hope for South Africa to stop Gender-based Violence and Femicide (GBVF)?
Yes. But it is a long journey. We need people to be active in their communities and spread the correct information regarding GBVF. We need people to speak up and say enough is enough.
What are 100-Day Challenges?
100-Day Challenges are short-term initiatives designed to drive rapid progress on specific issues within 100 days. These challenges bring together teams from different organisations to collaborate, experiment, and implement innovative solutions. Each team sets ambitious goals and works intensively to achieve measurable impact within the timeframe. In South Africa, 100-Day Challenges have been used as part of the End GBVF Movement to accelerate the implementation of the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (NSP on GBVF). Hosted by courts, municipalities, and TVET colleges, these challenges have helped mobilise local action against GBVF.
What is the National Strategic Plan (NSP)?
The National Strategic Plan (NSP) on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) 2020-2030 is South Africa’s 10-year framework for tackling GBVF. It focuses on six key pillars: accountability, prevention, justice, response, economic empowerment, and research. The NSP calls for bold leadership, multi-sectoral coordination, and survivor-centred support to drive social change, challenge harmful norms, and ensure access to justice and resources for survivors. By bringing together government, civil society, and the private sector, the plan aims to create a safer, more just society for womxn, children, and LGBTQIA+ persons.
How can I help?
There are numerous ways to contribute to ending the scourge of gender-based violence in South Africa. You can start by ensuring those around you have access to crucial information, and you can share resources like this website with them. If you’re passionate about taking direct action, consider participating in our upcoming events or joining the End GBVF Collective to lend your expertise. You can also make a meaningful impact by joining one of our annual 100-Day Challenges, where you’ll work alongside a team to address pressing GBVF-related issues in your community.