Advancing the Fight against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide in South Africa: The National Council on GBVF Bill

A Historic Debate in Parliament

On October 31, 2023, between 14:00 and 16:30, the Good Hope Chamber of Parliament will witness a vital debate on one of South Africa’s most pressing issues: gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF). Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities, Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, will take part in the significant discussion on the National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (NCGBVF) Bill [B31 – 2022]. As part of the second reading debate, this milestone event will lead to Parliament voting on the bill, initially tabled and referred to the Committee on October 11, 2022.

The NCGBVF Bill aims to fulfill the South African Constitution’s mandate to address the urgent need to combat GBVF. Its primary goal is to create the National Council on GBVF, which will act as a platform for collaboration between government and civil society in tackling this devastating issue. The bill details various provisions intended to establish a robust and effective framework for the council’s operation.

Establishing the Council and Fostering Collaboration

A critical aspect of the bill is the selection of the council’s board, which will supervise the organization’s objectives and functions. Through a transparent process, board members will be chosen based on their expertise and commitment to the mission of eradicating GBVF. The bill also sets the term of office for board members and defines clear guidelines for terminating membership in cases of misconduct or inability to fulfill duties.

For the council’s seamless functioning, the bill stipulates provisions for board meetings and the creation of committees to address specific concerns and challenges. Appointing a Chief Executive Officer and a Secretariat Unit will further strengthen the council’s ability to operate efficiently and bring about meaningful change.

Emphasizing the importance of collaboration at various government and societal levels, the NCGBVF Bill outlines the development of norms and standards for provincial and local working groups. This ensures that efforts to combat GBVF are coordinated and effective across the country. Additionally, the bill allows for the creation of regulations to support the council’s work and address other related matters.

The Significance of a United Effort Against GBVF

The Portfolio Committee’s support for the NCGBVF Bill reflects a cross-party commitment to addressing GBVF. It demonstrates a unified determination to confront this blight that has plagued South African society for far too long. The proposed council, with its balanced representation of both government and civil society, aims to facilitate cooperation and promote information exchange, enabling a multi-sectoral approach to combatting GBVF.

The collaborative initiatives that the NCGBVF Bill seeks to foster are essential in tackling the root causes of gender-based violence and femicide. By uniting relevant stakeholders, the council can set priorities, develop strategies, and share resources to create an environment where violence and discrimination against women are no longer tolerated. Furthermore, the council will play a crucial role in raising awareness about GBVF, promoting education and prevention, and ensuring that survivors receive the support they need.

The NCGBVF Bill debate is more than a parliamentary procedure; it is an opportunity for South Africa to take a firm stand against gender-based violence and femicide. By voting in favor of the bill, Parliament would endorse a vital tool in the fight against these deeply ingrained issues that have long undermined the nation’s social fabric.

As Minister Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma participates in this crucial debate, it is vital that the public and media stay engaged and informed about the bill’s progress. Media Liaison Officer for the Department of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities, Lorraine Shabangu, will be available to address any media-related inquiries in this regard.

A Commitment to a Safer Society

The National Council on GBVF Bill showcases the South African government’s dedication to building a society free from violence and discrimination. By establishing the council, South Africa will take a significant step towards eradicating gender-based violence and femicide, offering hope and a brighter future for generations to come.