Conceptualizing Gender-Based Violence and Femicide in South Africa

Violence against women and girls takes many forms, and occurs in different contexts, settings, circumstances, and relationships. Whilst violence against women is endemic around the world, gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) has reached extreme and crisis proportions in South Africa (SA). The increase in femicides and gratuitous violence committed by perpetrators in the commission of such femicides is a matter of serious concern. Especially so if one looks at gender inequality in SA. SA has one of the most inclusive and progressive constitutions in the world with regards to the legal protection of gender rights and the explicit provision for a democratic state based on, amongst others, the value of “non-sexism.” Yet, the country finds itself struggling to balance this with its largely patriarchal and culture driven society. It therefore begs the question of why regardless of the increased attention to women’s rights in the country, there has been little progress in reducing GBVF. This situation calls for an explanation of why women’s gains in the “public” sphere have coincided with a deterioration of their physical security. To answer this, one needs to first gain a conceptual understanding of GBVF. This chapter consequently provides the reader with an overview of GBVF in the country. It seeks to provide a solid foundation for an understanding and conceptualization of what is meant by GBVF by defining various terminologies associated with this phenomenon. This chapter concludes by looking at some of the most prevalent forms of GBVF, specific to the South African context.