'GBV crisis needs systemic, long-term solutions, not symbolic declarations'

President Cyril Ramaphosa recently declared gender-based violence a national crisis, warning that no country can claim progress while women and girls face ongoing threats.

The declaration follows Friday’s nationwide silent shutdown protests and a move by Cooperative Governance Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa to classify gender-based violence and femicide as a national disaster.

But experts, including Vetten, warn the label is largely symbolic.

She says the government will rely on existing plans, legislation and structures already in place, including the National Strategic Plan and GBVF Council.

Vetten argues that South Africa’s persistent violence cannot be solved through declarations alone.

"We've categorised violence against women now as an epidemic, a scourge, war, crisis, emergency, and now it's a national disaster. None of that has really made a difference. It's not a problem that's like an immediate crisis; it is chronic, it is entrenched, it is woven into some of the ways in which government is just, on some days, appearing close to collapse.

"Our budgets are limited, we're sitting with austerity. It's linked to the fact that the economy is not doing very well right now. That significantly exacerbates people's sense of despair, anger, and rage.

"When you add to those deeply entrenched notions around masculinity, femininity, how you deal with violence, then it's a long, deep problem that's linked to many other problems that you cannot cure overnight."

She says lasting change requires long-term investment in children, families and community support systems, not merely new slogans or crisis terminology.

To listen to Vetten in conversation with CapeTalk's Lester Kiewit, click below: