As a woman living in South Africa, I do not feel safe at all. Every day, countless women like me live in fear of becoming victims of gender-based violence (GBV). The tragic reality is that South Africa has one of the highest rates of GBV in the world, with Statistics South Africa reporting that every three hours, a woman is murdered, often by an intimate partner. Despite these horrifying numbers, many cases go unreported and perpetrators walk free.

We must acknowledge that GBV, including rape, is a pervasive problem that affects thousands of individuals and families across South Africa. Shockingly, it is estimated that only 8% of rape cases lead to a conviction in our judicial system. This alarming statistic highlights the systemic inadequacies that allow perpetrators to evade accountability, further endangering the lives of women and reinforcing a culture of impunity.

Gender-based violence is not merely a social issue but a gross violation of basic human rights. It perpetuates inequality and has lasting physical, emotional, and economic impacts on survivors, their families, and our communities. It is time to take urgent action to ensure that justice is served fairly and swiftly for victims of GBV.

We call upon the South African government to take definitive measures to classify all forms of gender-based violence as serious crimes under national law. This must be accompanied by stringent legal consequences for offenders, particularly for rapists, ensuring they face the full force of the law. Additionally, preventive measures should include better resources for law enforcement, enhanced victim support services, and comprehensive public education campaigns aimed at changing societal attitudes towards gender-based violence.

We must hold perpetrators accountable through a judicial process that prioritizes the safety and dignity of victims, with expedited investigations and trials. Empowering community-based organizations and increasing funding for counseling and long-term support for survivors is crucial because no one should have to walk this path alone.

This is a matter of urgency. The safety and dignity of women across South Africa depend on our collective action to transform laws and ensure justice for all victims of gender-based violence. By signing this petition, you join us in demanding that our right to live free from violence be upheld and protected. Let us strive for a country where every woman feels safe and valued, every rapist is brought to justice, and gender-based violence becomes a dark chapter left in the past. Sign now to make a difference.