Women’s Month is both a celebration and a constitutional reminder. It calls on all sectors of society to confront the persistent inequalities, discrimination and violence that continue to undermine the rights and freedoms of millions of women and girls. The SAHRC notes the commencement of the term of the National Council on Gender Based Violence and Femicide. The establishment of this statutory body represents an important milestone in strengthening South Africa’s institutional response to one of the country’s most profound human rights challenges.

The Commission reiterates that gender-based violence and femicide remain among the gravest human rights violations confronting South Africa. These violations are inseparable from broader patterns of discrimination, poverty, unequal access to justice, harmful social norms and structural inequality. Addressing them requires coordinated action by the State, Chapter 9 Institutions, civil society, communities and the private sector.

In fulfilment of its constitutional mandate, the SAHRC continues to work collaboratively with fellow Chapter 9 Institutions to address systemic human rights concerns affecting women. This includes the Joint Inquiry by the South African Human Rights Commission, the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) and the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities (CRL Rights Commission), which seeks to examine the intersection of gender equality, cultural and religious practices, and the protection of fundamental human rights.

The Inquiry reflects a shared commitment to ensuring that constitutional rights are realised in practice and that harmful practices, discrimination and violence against women are addressed through evidence-based recommendations and institutional accountability.

Throughout Women’s Month, the Commission will continue to advocate for the full realisation of the rights guaranteed by the Constitution, including equality, dignity, freedom and security of the person, access to justice, and socio-economic rights that are essential for women’s empowerment.

In conclusion, the Commission calls on stakeholders to use this Women’s Month to broaden the discourse to thoroughly interrogate challenges faced by women in informal settlements, farms, and the homeless. Women’s rights are human rights. Protecting these rights is not only a constitutional obligation but a collective responsibility that requires sustained commitment throughout the year.

ENDS

ISSUED BY THE SOUTH AFRICAN HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION