The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) has expressed grave concern over a sharp increase in intimate domestic violence cases across South Africa, calling it a “deeply troubling and urgent crisis.”
According to a 2024 report by the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), one in three South African women has experienced physical violence from an intimate partner at some point in her life.
Invisible trauma
The findings reveal the widespread and often invisible trauma endured by millions of women.
“These are not just numbers; they represent the lived realities of millions of women who endure suffering in silence,” the DWYPD stated.
“Behind each statistic is a human story marked by fear, pain, and often isolation.”
The department highlighted the various forms of intimate partner violence, which include:
- Physical violence
- Sexual violence
- Emotional and psychological abuse
- Economic or financial abuse
DWYPD stressed that these forms of abuse often co-exist, forming a pattern of coercive control by one partner over another.
This form of violence, they explained, goes far beyond physical harm and often includes manipulation, intimidation, and restrictions on financial independence.
“Intimate domestic violence is not a one-time incident,” the department added.
“It is a cycle of control and abuse that escalates over time, leaving deep and long-lasting scars.”
The psychological toll of such violence is immense.
Many survivors face depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and diminished self-worth.
Economic empowerment
Economically, the situation is just as dire.
DWYPD warned that domestic violence can derail women’s progress, particularly in terms of economic empowerment, as abuse often prevents victims from holding jobs or controlling their own finances.
Globally, the World Health Organisation (WHO) reports that one in three women worldwide have been subjected to either physical or sexual violence, with the majority of incidents committed by intimate partners.
South Africa’s statistics are in line with – or in some cases worse than – these international trends.
DWYPD is urging greater public awareness, stronger law enforcement responses, and expanded support systems for victims.
The department has called for collaborative efforts across government, civil society, and the private sector to prevent and respond to the growing scourge of intimate domestic violence.
“The progress we’ve made in empowering women cannot be allowed to erode under the weight of domestic abuse,” DWYPD concluded.
If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, help is available. Contact the GBV Command Centre at 0800 428 428 or dial 1207867# for assistance.
Do you know of someone in such a situation?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
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