16 Days of Activism: Debunking myths about GBV
In honour of 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children, we spoke to a GBV activist about harmful stereotypes that perpetuate the problem.
South Africa is currently observing 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children from 25 November to December 10.
The government says the purpose is to 'raise awareness of the negative impact that violence and abuse have on women and children and to rid society of abuse permanently'.
It is important to understand that abuse is described as 'any form of behaviour that causes fear, bodily harm and a person to do things against their will'.
GBV continues to plague communities worldwide, and South Africa was once labelled the rape capital of the world.
According to the latest crime statistics, a rape is reported every 12 minutes, so gender-based violence is a grave and pervasive issue in the country.
Whilst anyone can be a victim of intimate partner and/or sexual violence, statistics show that men are most often the perpetrators and women and children are victims.
Last week, Deputy President Paul Mashatile announced that the Cabinet has approved treating gender-based violence and femicide as a pandemic.
As the country observes the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children, we spoke to Zandile Tshabalala, a GBV activist and a centre manager at Ndawo Yakho, a shelter for abused women and children, about some of the harmful stereotypes that perpetuate the problem.
READ: Cabinet to tackle GBV with ‘pandemic-level urgency’
Myth
'GBV only includes physical abuse.'
Fact
GBV includes any physical, sexual, emotional, financial or structural form of abuse. It can perpetrated by intimate partners, acquaintances, strangers, and institutions.
Myth
'GBV is a private matter. No one has a right to intervene.'
Fact
Reporting GBV can save your life and the lives of others. Victims are encouraged to seek help, while those who witness the abuse being inflicted on others can also save the victim's life by reporting the matter to authorities.
Myth
'GBV affects only the poor'.
Fact
Gender-based violence knows no social, economic, or racial boundaries. Anyone can become a victim or a perpetrator.
Myth
'Do not speak out. Protect the perpetrator especially if he is the breadwinner and/or family member.'
Fact
The government has legislation in place to ensure the protection of victims. Having a protection order can save the victim's life. There are also laws to ensure the continued financial support of victims from their perpetrators. Things such as maintenance will ensure that victims still receive financial support.
Myth
'You do not need to report abuse to the police as they will not attend to the case.'
Fact
The South African government has prioritised the safety of women and children. It continues to assist millions of victims and arrest perpetrators of abuse.
Myth
'Women abuse is cultural.'
Fact
Everyone, despite their background or culture, has a right to be protected and to be treated equally and fairly.
READ: NSMSA 'Disappointed' on the exclusion of GBV in the mid-term budget
Listen to Jacaranda FM:
- 94.2
- Jacaranda FM App
- http://jacarandafm.com
- DStv 858/ OpenView 602
Follow us on social media:
More From Jacaranda FM
Image courtesy of iStock/ @Paul Gorvett