A Call to Action Beyond the 16 Days of Activism in South Africa

Today marks the beginning of South Africa’s 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children, a global campaign aimed at raising awareness and mobilizing society against gender-based violence (GBV). For many, these 16 days represent a moment of solidarity, a time to wear black on Fridays, and attend rallies or candlelit vigils. But for survivors and victims, the terror persists 365 days a year.

South Africa, often referred to as the femicide capital of the world, continues to grapple with staggering levels of violence against women and children. Statistics reveal a sobering reality over 1,000 women were murdered in the first quarter of this year alone, while cases of rape and domestic violence remain tragically high. Despite decades of activism, the culture of violence remains deeply entrenched, and our justice system often fails those it is meant to protect.

The question, then, is whether 16 days are enough. The answer is unequivocally no. While campaigns like this play an essential role in highlighting the issue, they must be backed by sustained action. Awareness alone cannot stem the tide of violence it must be paired with systemic change.

Government officials often use the 16 Days of Activism to make promises, yet the lived realities of survivors rarely change. Shelters for abused women are underfunded, legal proceedings are slow and retraumatizing, and societal norms continue to perpetuate cycles of abuse. While public demonstrations of solidarity are important, they must translate into tangible actions: the tightening of protective legislation, harsher penalties for perpetrators, and investment in victim support services.

We must also acknowledge the role of society in perpetuating GBV. Toxic masculinity, victim-blaming, and a culture of silence shield perpetrators and marginalize survivors. Every individual has a role to play in dismantling these harmful norms. It starts with holding ourselves and those around us accountable calling out misogynistic jokes, supporting survivors without judgment, and teaching young boys about respect and consent.

Too often, survivors are left to navigate a labyrinth of broken systems, from under resourced police stations to inaccessible legal aid. The burden must shift. South Africa needs to prioritize accessible mental health services, legal support, and job creation for survivors, empowering them to rebuild their lives.

Despite the grim statistics, there is hope. Civil society organizations, activists and communities are working tirelessly to combat GBV. Initiatives like the Gender-Based Violence Command Centre and the implementation of the National Strategic Plan on GBV and Femicide show promise but they need widespread support and proper funding to make a meaningful impact.

As we observe the 16 Days of Activism let us commit to making this fight a year-round effort. The safety and dignity of women and children in South Africa depend not on slogans and hashtags but on a collective and unwavering commitment to justice, accountability, and systemic change.

We cannot afford to let this campaign end on December 10th. The lives of women and children demand more than awareness they demand action.