Domestic Violence in South Africa: Women and Children Under Siege?

Abstract

Domestic violence is rife in South Africa and it has harsh effects on the society, particularly on family life. It cuts across class, race, culture and geography and it is all the more pernicious because it is often concealed and so frequently goes unpunished. The most vulnerable in our communities, women, children and the elderly all live in fear, simple things like walking one’s dog or jogging early in the morning or late in the afternoon can turn tragic. It seems there are few places for South African women and children to be safe. The existing legislative framework aimed at combating domestic violence seems to be unable to effectively address issues of domestic violence in the Republic (Domestic Violence Act). It is therefore, the purpose of this paper to give an overview of domestic violence legislation in South Africa and determine whether government has fulfilled its constitutional mandate in the protection of women and children. Some recommendations are made.

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2014.v5n20p928