UDM expresses dismay at femicide statistics - parliamentary statement
(2 June 2005)Last week in Cape Town alone, three such incidents took place, resulting not only in the killing of the female partners but various bystanders and four children. In six days 15 people were killed by three men in the course of their attacks on their wives or partners.
The Medical Research Council reports that South Africa has the highest rate of femicide in the world, namely that every six hours a South African woman is killed by her intimate partner.
The Family and Marriage Society of South Africa (FAMSA) describes family murders, which is often the escalation of femicide, as on the increase. These are disturbing trends within our fledgling democracy, and points to an unravelling of the social fabric, despite the introduction of the Bill of Rights.
Whilst much more research is required, certain aspects require immediate attention. Firstly, there still appears to be in many of our communities an acceptance of violence as a means to resolve conflict. Secondly, that cultural and religious patriarchy is often seen as a justification by men for violence against women. Thirdly, that substance abuse, specifically alcohol abuse, plays a prominent role in such violence. Fourthly, and indisputably, that firearms are central to the rate at which women and families are murdered. The UDM believes that all four of these aspects can be addressed by various Government departments; and we call for a integrated strategy in this regard.
