President Cyril Ramaphosa has stressed the need for legal reforms to close the gaps in the current system that hinder the fight against gender-based violence (GBV) in South Africa. Speaking at the International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ) biennial conference in Cape Town on Wednesday, the President said addressing these legal blind spots is crucial to protecting survivors’ rights and improving the legal response to GBV.
Ramaphosa pointed out that while laws have been strengthened, they must be fully enforced to ensure that perpetrators face appropriate consequences. “Laws cannot just be written – they must be enforced,” he said, urging the judiciary to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable and that sentences reflect the gravity of their crimes.
The conference, which is gathering judges, magistrates, and policymakers from around the world, is focusing on the critical role of judicial leadership in ending gender-based violence and femicide. The event, under the theme “Resilience: Women in Leadership to End Gender-Based Violence & Femicide,” marks the first time South Africa has hosted the IAWJ under the leadership of Chief Justice Mandisa Maya, also the IAWJ Vice President.
President Ramaphosa reflected on recent legislative changes made in South Africa, including amendments to the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act, the Criminal and Related Matters Amendment Act, and the Domestic Violence Act. These reforms, which followed extensive public consultation, aim to offer greater protection to survivors and provide better tools for law enforcement.
He added that fairness in the justice system is essential, not only in ensuring fair trials for the accused but also in protecting the rights of GBV survivors. He stressed that survivors must not face bias or victim-blaming in the courtroom.
Ramaphosa also noted the importance of a comprehensive approach to addressing GBV, including education, raising awareness about gender equality, and engaging men and boys in the conversation. He emphasized the need for economic empowerment for women, which would reduce their vulnerability to abuse.
As the conference continues, President Ramaphosa expressed confidence that the discussions would lead to meaningful actions in the ongoing fight against GBV and femicide.
