Domestic Violence Act in South Africa

The implementation of the Domestic Violence Act (DVA) is an urgent necessity. Statistics on domestic violence are telling and worrying. According to a 2016 health and democratic survey, a fifth (21%) of SouthAfrican women over 18 years old in intimate relationships have experienced physical violence from a partner; 6% experienced sexual violence from a partner.

The Minister of Police held an Action Indaba on 17 and 18 August 2017 where all were invited including community-based organizations; academia and the youth. The major theme of the action-orientated Indaba was to come up with actions to be taken to tackle the problem of gender-based violence and sexual offenses.

There is still an improper implementation of DVA/National Instructions by SAPS members in most cases e.g. incident forms are not always fully and correctly completed. Thus, the Department of Police believes internal monitoring mechanisms should be strengthened. the Station Commissioners should ensure full adherence and compliance with provisions of the Act and National Instructions, and Station Commanders should be held accountable for failing to record incidents of non-compliance by SAPS members.

MPs pointed out the need to probe the factors that continue to prohibit implementation of the DVA. It is unclear whether there is a shortage of resources or lack of commitment to ensure the Act is being implemented and that there is compliance. Gender-based violence is negatively impacting the fabric of society and therefore it needs to be handled with the seriousness it deserves.

Source: Implementation Of The Domestic Violence Act | Pmg.
Foto: Confronting Violence: Generations of Reformers

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