MOT SA Stands Against Gender-Based Violence

Gender-based violence is an issue faced by many all over the world and has since escalated due to the COVID-19 Lockdown.

What is Gender-based Violence?

Gender-based Violence (GBV) is violence against an individual based on his/her gender identity. Violence includes physical, emotional, sexual, psychological, economic, threats, bullying, and many more, which can happen in public or in private.

“Within the first week alone of our current lockdown, South African Police Services (SAPS) received 2,320 complaints of gender-based violence (which are only the reported cases), with only 148 related charges laid. These statistics represent a 37% increase in the weekly average of South African GBV cases reported for 2019.

Seeking aid during this time may be challenging due to restricted movement, but we must not feel it is impossible. The law is not suspended during the lockdown period, but it most definitely needs to be more responsive and sensitive to cases of GBV at this time.” Read more by Dr Jill Ryan here

As MOT SA, we take a firm stand against all violence. We would like to encourage those that are suffering due to GBV to have the courage to stand up and say NO to something that we do not agree to, rise up and make your voice heard!

We also need to do our part by reporting those who are suffering. Encourage those to speak out or to speak to someone they can trust.

Together we can and we will fight the pandemic of Gender-based violence.

Anyone in need of help, please can contact the National Gender-based Violence Command Centre (which operates under The Department of Social Development) via the following options:

• Telephone: 0800 428 428
• Send “please call me” to: *120*7867#
• SMS ‘help’ to 31531 (SMS Based Line 31531 for persons with disabilities)

Here is to a warmer and safer South Africa!

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