OPINION | GBV prevention demands a collective investment
One in three SA women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence in their lifetime
South Africa has established one of the most robust gender-based violence (GBV) response systems on the continent. However, to effectively combat the crisis, a shift towards prevention is necessary. According to the Human Sciences Research Council, one in three South African women have experienced physical or sexual violence, one in four have faced emotional abuse, and over half have encountered controlling behavior.
Despite significant investments in response systems, such as the Thuthuzela Care Centres, the societal conditions that perpetuate GBV remain unchanged. Businesses, which employ millions, possess the potential to influence societal norms and structures through their existing programs and initiatives. By incorporating GBV prevention into Corporate Social Investment (CSI) programs, companies can play a pivotal role in changing cultural attitudes and behaviors.
Evidence-based approaches, such as the Stepping Stones program, which combines social behavior change with economic empowerment, demonstrate promising results in reducing GBV while improving women's socio-economic conditions. While preventing GBV requires a long-term commitment and patience, the potential for transformative change is significant and far-reaching.
Written by urgent.news from SABC News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
