Every year, South Africa marks Women’s Day with messages of appreciation and celebration for the women who shape our families and our country. Yet behind these platitudes lies the painful reality that many women are victims of gender-based violence.
Today, the Democratic Alliance gathered in a silent protest to stand in solidarity with survivors of gender-based violence and call for meaningful action to end this threat against women from all walks of life across the country.
The silent protest serves as a powerful reminder that women will only truly be honoured when we build a society where they are safe, protected and respected, and where they can live their lives free from fear.
The latest crime statistics underscore the scale of this crisis. From January to March this year, South Africa recorded 9 782 reported rape cases. Of these, 4 620 occurred in the homes of either the victim or the perpetrator. This means that 47,2% of reported rapes took place in spaces that should safe, secure and protected.
These statistics represent women whose lives have been forever changed by violence, families left traumatised, and communities forced to confront the devastating impact of gender-based violence.
Our commitment to protecting and empowering women must be reflected through meaningful action to prevent violence, support survivors and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable.
Today’s silent protest is a call to action.
Ending gender-based violence requires urgency, stronger accountability and a collective commitment from government, communities and every South African to reject violence against women in all its forms.
Only then can we truly honour the women of our country.