The TEARS Foundation issues an urgent warning that South Africa’s response to gender-based violence is inadequate. The organisation says the country’s current policies and level of action fail to protect people who experience abuse, leaving them without sufficient support and protection. TEARS frames the situation as an ongoing crisis with serious consequences for lives across the country and calls for changes to how government addresses gender-based violence.
In its statement, the foundation urges stronger and more effective measures rather than continued delays, arguing that better implementation and improved responsiveness are necessary to reduce violence and provide help to survivors. The call emphasises the need for a transformation of existing approaches so that support mechanisms and enforcement function for those most at risk. TEARS’ message is directed at government responsibility and stresses that immediate attention is required to address the continuing prevalence of gender-based violence in South Africa.
