South Africa launches public hearings for gender-based violence inquiry

A national inquiry into South Africa’s handling of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) is moving to public hearings in Braamfontein from 29 September to 2 October. The inquiry is a joint effort by the Commission for Gender Equality, the South African Human Rights Commission, and the CRL Rights Commission.

The first phase of the hearings will investigate survivors' experiences regarding reporting violence, police investigations, forensic evidence, and the support services available before cases reach trial. The goal is to identify systemic failures and provide recommendations to improve accountability and access to justice.

Separately, President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for increased community action against GBV perpetrators. Speaking at a religious conference, Ramaphosa urged citizens to refuse to excuse controlling behavior or protect abusers due to personal relationships, emphasizing that the fight against violence must begin within the home and through the way children are raised.