An organisation which lobbies for the rights of refugees has called on the South African government, to take concrete steps to help combat sexual- and gender-based violence (GBV), not only within refugee communities but in South Africa more broadly.
The Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) said that the government needed to take a number of steps to help end this scourge.
It said the government should:
- Strengthen Legal Frameworks: Enact and enforce comprehensive laws that protect all individuals from all forms of gender-based violence, including domestic violence, sexual assault, and harassment. These laws must be effectively implemented and provide adequate support to survivors;
- Increase Access to Support Services: Allocate sufficient resources to establish and maintain accessible support services for survivors of gender-based violence, including shelters, counselling services, legal aid, and medical assistance. These services must be available in both urban and rural areas to ensure all individuals have access to the support they need;
- Enhance Prevention Efforts: Develop and implement comprehensive prevention programs that address the root causes of gender-based violence. These programs should focus on promoting gender equality, challenging harmful gender norms, and educating communities about consent and respectful relationships;
- Strengthen Law Enforcement and Justice Systems: Provide specialized training to law enforcement officials, prosecutors, and judges on handling cases of gender-based violence sensitively and effectively. Establish specialized units within the police force and courts to ensure cases are handled promptly and efficiently; and
- Collaborate with Civil Society Organizations: Foster partnerships with civil society organizations, including JRS SA, to collectively address gender-based violence. Through dialogue, resource sharing, and collaboration on awareness campaigns and capacity-building initiatives, we can make a greater impact in combating this issue.
JRS also said that it would be using the annual “Sixteen Days of Activism for No violence Against Women and Children” which runs from 25 November to 10 December this year, to raise awareness around the issue, as well as conduct outreach in communities.
JRS also said that standing up to violence against women and children was something that should be committed to year-round, not just during this period of activism.
Said Nicole Breen, advocacy co-ordinator at JRS: “Each one of us can make a difference. From raising awareness to changing our behaviours, we must work together to build a society where violence is no longer tolerated. Let’s ensure that every day is a step toward creating a world free from violence against women and children.”