Silenced Voices: The Unspoken Struggles of Disabled Victims of GBV in South Africa's Justice System

In the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in South Africa, there is a group of survivors whose stories remain largely unheard, their struggles hidden from the public eye.

These are the disabled victims of GBV, whose journey through the justice system is fraught with challenges that reflect a broader issue of inclusivity.

In this edition of "The Unspoken Truth," we shine a light on the experiences of disabled survivors and the urgent need for reform in South Africa's justice system.

VRYHEID KZN: Disabled persons stand up against gender-based violence

The Silent Struggles

These struggles are not unique to South Africa, Disabled women in Zimbabwe also face the same.

96 percent of women and girls with disabilities experience violence in Zimbabwe

Disabled individuals in South Africa face multiple barriers when seeking justice after experiencing GBV. These barriers, often overlooked, include:

1. Accessibility: Many police stations, courtrooms, and support services are not adequately accessible for individuals with disabilities, hindering their ability to report incidents or participate in legal proceedings.
2. Communication Challenges: Disabled survivors may struggle to communicate their experiences effectively, especially if they have speech or hearing impairments. This can lead to misunderstandings or dismissal of their claims.
3. Lack of Awareness: Law enforcement, legal professionals, and service providers may not be adequately trained to handle cases involving disabled survivors, leading to insensitivity or neglect.
4. Dependency on Caregivers: Disabled survivors may rely on caregivers who may not believe or support them, making it difficult to escape abusive situations or access help.
5. Stigma and Stereotypes: Disabled individuals often face social stigma and stereotypes that may discourage them from reporting GBV or seeking support.

GBV and Women with Physical Disabilities in SA

The Call for Change

To address these challenges, South Africa's justice system must take immediate steps towards inclusivity and accessibility for disabled survivors of GBV:

1. Training and Sensitisation: Law enforcement and legal professionals should receive training in disability awareness and communication strategies to better serve disabled survivors.

1. Accessible Facilities: Ensuring that all police stations, courtrooms, and support services are accessible to disabled individuals is crucial. This includes physical accessibility as well as accommodations for different communication needs.
2. Accessible Information: Information about reporting GBV and accessing support services should be made available in multiple formats, including Braille, sign language, and easy-to-read formats.
3. Empowering Disabled Survivors: Empower disabled survivors to assert their rights and make informed decisions by providing them with information and resources tailored to their specific needs.
4. Intersectional Support: Recognise that disabled individuals may belong to other marginalised groups, such as LGBTQ+ or racial minorities, and ensure that support services are inclusive and sensitive to these intersecting identities.

16 Days of Activism: Calls for equal access to police, courts for disabled victims of GBV

Final Thoughts

The inclusivity of disabled victims of GBV in South Africa's justice system is an unspoken truth that demands attention and action. By acknowledging the unique challenges faced by disabled survivors and working to create a more accessible and supportive environment, we can take significant steps toward ending GBV and ensuring justice for all in South Africa. It is time to give voice to the silenced struggles and pave the way for a more inclusive future.