Power Imbalance Contribute To Violations Against Women: Deputy Minister Letsike

Deputy Minister for Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities Mmapaseka "Steve" Letsike said that the power imbalance between men and women leads to the violation of women's rights.

This statement came on Tuesday after the first South African National Gender-Based Violence Prevalence Study, a report on victimization and perpetration conducted by the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) was issued on Monday.

She explained that men have been conditioned to believe they are entitled to women's time, labor, bodies and more. Letsike said that there is no competition between men and women, but men must understand that they do not have the right to women's bodies.

Letsike emphasized that men and women can be equal partners, sharing equality and finances, but nothing justifies violating another person, especially women, as it is criminal in South Africa, SA News reported.

The HSRC report revealed that approximately 7.3 million women aged 18 and older have experienced physical violence in their lifetime. Letsike noted that there is a significant task ahead, stressing that the country cannot fail its women.

She emphasized the need to improve monitoring and accountability mechanisms and integrate gender-based violence (GBV) interventions into broader social policies. She also highlighted the importance of addressing the connections between GBV, HIV, economic inequality, and gaps in education, which are linked to the causes of violence.

Letsike also stressed the role of science in tackling societal issues, saying that science must serve the people and ensure no one is left behind. She noted that if communities understand and take ownership of the data, it can be effectively used to make a positive impact.

The study is not just data but a lifeline for South Africa, Letsike said. The deputy minister emphasized the need to not only raise awareness but also focus on prevention, supporting survivors, and holding perpetrators accountable.

She called for turning data into action by developing interventions that are responsive to survivors' needs and ensuring that resources are allocated to address the scale of the problem.

Last week, Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube urged the private sector to get more involved in the education sector as it consists of resources, expertise and the ability to make a big difference.