06-07-2025
GBV epidemic Study exposes system failures
JOHANNESBURG - New research in South Africa shows that COVID-19 lockdown measures worsened gender-based violence, trapping many survivors in abusive homes with limited access to help.
A study in the Eastern Cape Town of Matatiele revealed that survivors faced greater barriers to police, hospitals and support services during the pandemic.
Social workers also struggled to provide care, highlighting gaps in the country's emergency response systems.
To discuss this further, we're joined by Dr Marinei Herselman from the University of Fort Hare's Department of Social Work and Master's Student, Bongeka Zawani.
