Silent protest speaks loudly against sexual violence

A silent protest by women outside Parliament on 7 October conveyed a tangible sense of feminine strength. The women represented the Women’s Action Campaign South Africa (WACSA), which handed over a petition to the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee for Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities, calling on the government to take stronger action against conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV).

The event marks one year since the 7 October 2023 attacks in Israel, which sparked WACSA’s initial campaign. Since then, the organisation has broadened its focus to address CRSV globally, particularly in African conflict zones.

“Our message is clear: rape and sexual violence are never justified, under any circumstances,” said WACSA spokesperson Angie Richardson.

The petition, signed by more than 5 000 South Africans, urges the government to strengthen its voice in condemning CRSV; to support prosecuting these acts as war crimes; provide consistent support for all CRSV survivors; and address attitudes about sexual violence in conflict.

“We’re calling on government to apply consistent pressure through international courts, the United Nations, and its diplomatic channels to ensure accountability and justice for all victims,” Richardson said.