The Commission welcomes the court’s decision to grant Oscar Pistorius bail, and further trusts that justice will be served at the end of the trial. This decision comes in the wake of the brutal deaths of Reeva Steenkamp, Anene Booysens and many other women whose stories did not make headline news.
The South African National Council Against Gender Violence demands urgent action from all stakeholders to address violence perpetrated against women, children and people with disabilities in the country.
The Council is currently finalising a national strategy and action plan to address gender violence. The plan focuses on awareness, prevention, response, support, communication and coordination as a way of eradicating this pandemic. Research conducted by the Medical Research Council and Gender Links shows that most gender violence in South Africa happens in intimate partner relationships.
This is exacerbated by the easy access to guns. The Council calls for stricter legislation on gun control and follow up if gun owners are charged for any crimes. Media coverage of the two cases highlight several harmful gender stereotypes and play into toxic masculinities. In the Booysen’s case the focus of coverage was on the culpability of the victim rather than the responsibility of the perpetrators. The coverage on Oscar Pistorius buys into the stereotype that celebrities are beyond reproach.
Much of the coverage seems to convey disbelief that a ‘hero’ could do such a thing. While we debate whether or not Pistorius was capable of murder, Reeva Steenkamp’s parents had her funeral. The disproportionate and insensitive focus on Pistorius in the media begs the question: Is the media part of the solution or the problem in addressing gender violence?
The Council believes the time is now for action to eradicate gender violence. This requires political will and resources. The Council will use its collective strength to ensure that women and girls are able to fully realise their rights as citizens and to live in safe communities.
Enquiries:
Cornelius Monama
Tel: 012 359 0208
Cell: 082 578 4063
