When women live in fear, none of us can remain neutral

The recent discovery of women's bodies across Ekurhuleni has once again brought South Africa's gender-based violence crisis into sharp focus. Women's lives have become a constant source of fear, woven into the fabric of their daily routines. Each victim was a daughter, mother, sister, friend, colleague or student, with dreams and a future that was tragically cut short.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on South Africans to stand up for women's rights, but outrage alone is not enough to ensure their safety. Universities, communities, and men must confront the cultures that enable violence, strengthen accountability systems, and turn concern into sustained action. It's essential to recognize that women's freedom cannot depend on their ability to anticipate male violence.

Safety advice is important, but it must also mean changing the conditions that allow violence to occur and ensuring those responsible are held accountable. Men must challenge other men in various settings, rejecting cultures of masculinity that confuse domination with strength. Universities are not just places for studying; they are communities where young people form relationships, develop identities, and learn about living together.

Universities must take responsibility for addressing gender-based violence, as it affects the entire institution. Policies and reporting mechanisms are necessary, but the real test is whether students feel safe, are believed when they seek help, receive appropriate support, and see the institution act within a reasonable timeframe.