Gender-based violence comprises a wide range of abusive acts, often a result of socio-economic and cultural inequalities – these acts can be sexual, physical, emotional or financial in nature.
Violence against women and girls is defined in the “Declaration on the Elimination of Violence Against Women” as occurring in three domains, viz. the family, the community and perpetrated/condoned by the state.
In 2001/20/02, 54 293 rape cases were reported to the South African Police Services (SAPS).
The number of reported cases increased to 55 114, in 2004/2005. More alarming is the fact that many women do not report being raped due to the culture of silence that often surrounds gender-based violence. This occurrence suggests that the actual number of rapes that have taken place over the last year is considerably higher than the figure released by the SAPS.
If you have been raped or abused, it’s in your best interests to report it. It’s your human right to be protected by the law.