The Domestic Violence Act provides an important legal framework for protecting people experiencing domestic violence. Yet, for many survivors, accessing that protection remains a struggle. Inadequate training, institutional failures and entrenched patriarchal attitudes can prevent the law from translating into meaningful safety and support.
This video in this series examines the challenges in implementing South Africa’s Domestic Violence Act of 1998 and the barriers survivors encounter when seeking protection and justice. It explores failures in the police and court systems, the impact of patriarchal attitudes within state institutions, and the vital role that women’s shelters play in supporting survivors and advocating for their rights.
The video also highlights the intergenerational nature of violence and the need for early intervention, education and support to help break the cycle of abuse.
Produced by the Heinrich Böll Foundation’s Cape Town office, the series forms part of the Enhancing the State’s Response to GBV: Paying the True Costs project, implemented in partnership with the National Shelter Movement of South Africa and funded by the European Union. The project seeks to strengthen state accountability for the adequate provision and funding of domestic violence support services, particularly shelters for abused women.
Watch the video:
