GBV And Femicide: A Growing Concern
The rate at which violence against women and children remains a widespread problem in South Africa is concerning. Women have marched and pleaded with the government and safety personnel to improve the quality of protection measures, yet the number of victims keeps increasing. Read on to find out why gender-based violence and femicide remains a growing concern for millions of women and children nationwide.
The Statistics
The 2022 crime statistics released by the Police Commissioner have highlighted a significant increase in the number of women who’ve been victims of murder, attempted murder and assault. In most cases, gender-based violence affects women and young girls. The central defining aspect of GBV is that it’s a crime that thrives in unequal power relationships.
Generally, male leadership dominates most societies and treating men as superior is common. Yet, these societal and cultural systems have influenced conditioning where women don’t enjoy the same freedoms as men. For instance, over 70% of black women in South Africa live below the poverty line.
Factors Influencing GBV and Femicide
Studies suggest that poverty exposes victims to violence. Women and young girls are often more likely subjected to sexual exploitation and physical violence. The growing concern around GBV and femicide cannot be addressed without looking at poverty as a fundamental influencer of the risks and challenges related to these crimes.
There are four primary factors that contribute to the widespread violent and deadly crimes against women and children:
Cultural
Globally, cultural influences have promoted the dominance of men, which tends to damage the significance of women and children. Gender stereotypes and discrimination can arise when cultural practices are used as a benchmark. In some cases, violence can be used to instil authority.
Personality Traits
On the other hand, a perpetrator who displays possessive or jealous attributes is likely to become an abusive partner. For instance, they can accuse you of infidelity and use it as a justifiable reason for their extreme physical violence. Most importantly, their actions can escalate quickly, and it’s always crucial to be mindful of warning signs like intentionally isolating you from your social support structure and controlling you.
Political
In the 2022/23 police reports, murder and attempted murder rates of women increased by more than 10%. Additionally, assault to do grievous bodily harm cases increased by over 15%. Alarmingly, most victims experience violence from people they love and trust.
Economic
Research suggests a close relationship between violent crimes against women and poverty. The lack of financial resources and opportunities pressures victims to stay in dangerous environments where they are financially dependent on the perpetrators. On the other hand, the trauma victims face can lead to self-harming choices that may make them more vulnerable to violence.
Alcohol and Substance Abuse
Alcohol and substances can impair thinking and behaviour. In most cases, aggressive behaviour that can lead to physical violence. The risk of alcohol and substance use contributing to violence is presumably higher in intimate partner relationships.
Family History
Research suggests that people who grow up in abusive and violent homes have a higher chance of committing violent crimes. The cycle of abuse from childhood can continue into adulthood. Additionally, long-term mental and physical health concerns affect people who grow up in abusive homes.
How to Support a GBV Victim
It’s essential to provide emotional support to victims. It can be a positive way to encourage confidence to move on from the ordeal and to improve their mental, emotional, and physical wellness. Here are five ways that you can support victims of GBV:
- Establish trust through listening without judgement.
- Recommend service providers suitable for their needs.
- Ask them how you can provide support to them.
- Respect their boundaries.
- Empower them and let them know they’re in control of their healing.
In summary, gender-based violence and femicide remain a growing concern for millions. It’s crucial to show unity in supporting victims and for the government to ensure punishable measures are in place for perpetrators. The iER App is here for victims who don’t know how to report abuse and violent incidents. You can access Emergency Management and Social Services to assist you.