What can end Gender-Based violence against women

What Can End Gender-Based Violence When the Current System Is Failing?

Gender-based violence (GBV) remains one of the most persistent human rights violations in South Africa and globally. Despite laws, policies, and national strategies, the lived realities of women and girls show that the current systems are not delivering the safety, justice, or prevention they promise. If existing structures are not working, a new approach is required—one that goes beyond reactive responses and tackles the root causes, social attitudes, and accountability gaps that allow GBV to thrive.

Strengthening Prevention, Not Only Response
Most national efforts focus on what happens after violence occurs. True change requires prevention. This includes early education on respect, consent, and gender equality in schools; community-based programs that address harmful social norms; and targeted interventions for boys and young men. Prevention shifts GBV from being treated as a criminal justice issue to being