In a powerful address at the 17th Biennial Conference of the International Association of Women Judges in Cape Town, President Cyril Ramaphosa spotlighted the critical intersection between gender-based violence (GBV) and pervasive social issues like poverty and inequality. The conference, which gathered around 900 judges, magistrates, legal professionals, and policymakers from across the globe, aimed to forge a comprehensive judicial approach to combat the global epidemic of GBV and femicide.
As the world grapples with the alarming rates of violence against women, Ramaphosa called for a united front to confront this multifaceted crisis. “Gender-based violence is a crime against humanity. It is a phenomenon that not only destroys lives but also hampers our progress towards a more just and equitable society,” he stated. He stressed that the fight against GBV must be prioritised as it compounds the struggles of poverty and inequality for vulnerable communities, particularly women.
Addressing the gathered dignitaries, Ramaphosa urged women from all walks of life to use their voices to challenge and dismantle the systems that perpetuate violence. “We must stand together and ensure that our voices are amplified. Women must reclaim their place in society, and we must encourage them to take control of their narratives,” he emphasised.
The conference serves as an important platform for judicial leadership and offers strategies for tackling GBV through legal reform, policy-making, and community engagement. With countries represented from various continents, the discussions are expected to foster international collaboration and innovative solutions.
As GBV remains a critical concern, it is evident that judicial activism and a commitment to empowering women are essential pillars in addressing this global scourge.