Gender-based violence (GBV) remains one of the most pervasive human rights violations in South Africa. As we mark World AIDS Day during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, it is crucial to reflect on how these two crises intersect and demand urgent, collaborative action.
Understanding GBV
Gender-based violence is defined as any form of violence rooted in societal expectations and unequal power dynamics between genders, and affects people of all ages, races, sexual orientations, religions and social statuses
Despite a slight decrease in overall violent crime, South Africa’s latest South African Police Service (SAPS) statistics paint a harrowing picture:
- 315 children were murdered between July and September 2024.
- 490 attempted murders and 1 944 assaults with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH) were reported against children.
- Crimes against women and children, often within their own homes, continue to escalate.
Tragically, GBV has extended beyond homes into schools and other public spaces. Between July and September 2024:
- 106 rapes occurred at educational facilities, with 90 victims being learners.
- 13 murders, 24 attempted murders, and 318 GBH assaults were reported at schools, universities, and daycare centres.
GBV also contributes to societal issues such as femicide, gangsterism, human trafficking, and crimes targeting the LGBTQIA+ community.
The connection between GBV and HIV/AIDS
It is impossible to address GBV without recognising its profound link to HIV/AIDS. GBV directly increases women’s vulnerability to HIV by limiting their ability to:
- Refuse sex or negotiate condom use.
- Seek help due to fear or trauma of reprisal.
Young women are particularly at risk. According to UNAIDS, half of all new HIV infections among adults now occur in individuals aged 15–24 years, highlighting the vulnerability of adolescent girls and young women in abusive environments.
The impact of GBV on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Treatment
GBV undermines global efforts to end HIV/AIDS as a public health threat. According to UNAIDS:
- Intimate partner violence is linked to a heightened risk of HIV in women.
- Harmful gender norms and fragile health systems hinder access to safe and affordable sexual and reproductive health services.
- Women and girls living with HIV often face stigma, coercion, and human rights violations, such as forced sterilisation or termination of pregnancies.
Globally, one in eight women experiences sexual violence before the age of 18, making early intervention and community action critical to breaking these cycles of abuse and infection.
A call to action
Badisa, alongside partners such as the Dutch Reformed Church, Uniting Reformed Church, CABSA, CLF, and the Thursdays in Black initiative, is calling on South Africans to join the “Step Up and Stand Against Gender-Based Violence” campaign during the global 16 Days of Activism from 25 November to 10 December.
Breaking the cycle
By addressing the root causes of GBV and improving access to HIV prevention and treatment services, we can work toward a future where women, children and vulnerable communities are safe and empowered.
For more information or to seek help, visit www.badisa.org.za or email info@badisa.org.za.
