Parliament, Monday, 25 November 2024 – The Presiding Officers of Parliament, led by the Speaker of the National Assembly and the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, stand in solidarity with South Africans and the global community as we commemorate the annual 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children.
This United Nations campaign, observed from 25 November (International Day of No Violence Against Women) to 10 December (International Human Rights Day), highlights the urgent need to end the scourge of gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide. During this period, Parliament will also mark World AIDS Day on 1 December and the International Day for Persons with Disabilities on 3 December, reaffirming its commitment to human rights and social justice.
A Call to Collective Action
This year, the campaign runs under the theme, “30 Years of Advancing Collective Action to End Violence Against Women and Children,” which underscores the importance of a whole-of-society approach to combating GBV. The focus is on amplifying accountability across all sectors, addressing the root causes of GBV, promoting gender equity, fostering positive masculinity, and creating economic opportunities for women and children.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has identified GBV as a “silent pandemic” that erodes the country’s social fabric and hinders progress. He has called on society to confront patriarchal power structures that perpetuate violence and inequality. Parliament echoes this call, emphasising the need for men to participate in the fight against GBV actively and to challenge harmful norms and behaviours.
As we commemorate the campaign, the Presiding Officers also wish to reaffirm Parliament’s commitment to safeguarding the rights and interests of children, as enshrined in the Constitution. Protecting children from preventable harm, such as unsafe food, is critical to ensuring their safety and dignity. As we reflect on the theme of advancing collective action to end violence and harm against vulnerable groups, Parliament calls on all sectors of society – including government, businesses, civil society organisations, and communities – to work together to ensure every child has access to safe, nutritious food. This collective vigilance is vital to building a healthier, safer, and more equitable society for future generations.
The Presiding Officers of Parliament are deeply concerned about the ongoing food contamination crisis that has claimed the lives of children in the country. This tragedy underscores the urgent need for stricter food safety measures and accountability within the food production and supply chain. As custodians of the rights and well-being of all South Africans, Parliament will intensify its oversight to ensure that the relevant departments and regulatory bodies enforce food safety standards and take decisive action against those who endanger public health.
Parliament’s Legislative and Oversight Role
Parliament has demonstrated its commitment to combating GBV by passing and reviewing legislation that forms a robust framework for addressing the crisis, including:
- The Domestic Violence Amendment Act
- The Sexual Offences and Related Matters Amendment Act
- The National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Act
- The Prevention and Combating of Trafficking in Persons Act
Through its oversight role, Parliament continues to monitor the implementation of the National Strategic Plan (NSP) on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, ensuring government accountability. The recently developed Parliamentary Oversight Framework provides a coordinated approach to enforcing the NSP’s pillars and addressing GBV holistically.
Awareness and Advocacy
During the 16 Days campaign, Parliament will leverage its platforms to raise awareness, challenge societal norms, and foster discussions on GBV. Daily messages across social media will amplify the fight against GBV, encouraging collective responsibility and promoting behavioural change. During the NCOP’s plenary on Tuesday, delegates will hold a debate on the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.
Additionally, a multiparty delegation will visit GBV hotspots in Cape Town to engage with survivors, support shelters, and collaborate with organisations working with boys and men to address the societal root causes of violence.
A Collective Responsibility
Parliament reaffirms its commitment to ending violence against women and children and calls on all sectors of society – government, civil society and communities – to join forces. The fight against GBV is not just a campaign; it is a continuous effort that requires year-round dedication, as emphasised by South Africa’s 365 Days National Action Plan to End Violence Against Women and Children.
As we commemorate the 16 Days of Activism, let us remember that the fight against GBV starts with each one of us. Together, we can build a safer, more equitable society where the rights and dignity of every individual are upheld.
ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA
Enquiries: Moloto Mothapo
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