The 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign runs from Monday, November 25, until December 10, and the presiding officers of Parliament said they stood in solidarity with South Africans and the global community.
This United Nations campaign, observed from November 25, (International Day of No Violence Against Women) to December 10 (International Human Rights Day), highlights the urgent need to end the scourge of gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide.
The theme for 2024 is ‘30 Years of Advancing Collective Action to End Violence Against Women and Children’, which underscores the importance of a whole-of-society approach to combating GBV.
Parliament said the focus is on amplifying accountability across all sectors, addressing the root causes of GBV, promoting gender equity, fostering positive masculinity, and creating economic opportunities for women and children.
President Cyril Ramaphosa, identified GBV as the ‘silent pandemic’ that erodes the country’s social fabric and hinders process.
He called on society to confront patriarchal power structures that perpetuate violence and inequality. Parliament echoed this call and emphasised the need for men to participate in the fight against GBV and challenge the harmful norms and behaviours.
The Presiding Officers also wish to reaffirm Parliament’s commitment to safeguarding the rights and interests of children, as enshrined in the Constitution.
“Protecting children from preventable harm, such as unsafe food, is critical to ensuring their safety and dignity. As we reflect on the theme of advancing collective action to end violence and harm against vulnerable groups, Parliament calls on all sectors of society – including government, businesses, civil society organisations, and communities – to work together to ensure every child has access to safe, nutritious food. This collective vigilance is vital to building a healthier, safer, and more equitable society for future generations,” Parliament said.
It also expressed a deep concern for the ongoing food contamination crisis that claimed the lives of children across the country.
“As custodians of the rights and well-being of all South Africans, Parliament will intensify its oversight to ensure that the relevant departments and regulatory bodies enforce food safety standards and take decisive action against those who endanger public health,” it said.
In its commitment to combating GBV, Parliament said this is visible by passing and reviewing legislation that forms a robust framework for addressing the crisis including:
– The Domestic Violence Amendment Act
– The Sexual Offences and Related Matters Amendment Act
– The National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Act
– The Prevention and Combating of Trafficking in Persons Act
“Through its oversight role, Parliament continues to monitor the implementation of the National Strategic Plan (NSP) on gender-based violence and femicide, ensuring government accountability. The recently developed Parliamentary Oversight Framework provides a coordinated approach to enforcing the NSP’s pillars and addressing GBV holistically,” it said.
During the 16 days, Parliament said it would leverage its platforms to raise awareness, challenge societal norms, and foster discussions on GBV. Daily messages across social media will amplify the fight against GBV, encouraging collective responsibility and promoting behavioural change. A debate based on the campaign will also be hosted during the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) on Tuesday, November 26.
A multiparty delegation will also be visiting GBV hotspots in Cape Town and engaging with survivors, supporting shelters, and collaborating with organisations working with boys and men to address the societal root causes of violence.
“The fight against GBV is not just a campaign; it is a continuous effort that requires year-round dedication, as emphasised by South Africa’s 365 Days National Action Plan to End Violence Against Women and Children. As we commemorate the 16 Days of Activism, let us remember that the fight against GBV starts with each one of us. Together, we can build a safer, more equitable society where the rights and dignity of every individual are upheld,” it said.
robin.francke@iol.co.za
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