President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared gender-based violence and femicide a national crisis, demanding urgent societal action. He made this announcement at the conclusion of the G20 Social Summit in Boksburg, emphasizing that the violence impedes national development and inclusive growth. Ramaphosa called upon men and boys to become partners in challenging the harmful social norms that enable such crimes.
His statement preceded a planned national shutdown organized by Women for Change, which is demanding that the government classify gender-based violence as a national disaster. The protest urges women and LGBTQI+ individuals to abstain from work to demonstrate their essential role in society and to push for increased funding and resources. The president also affirmed the G20's forward momentum despite a United States boycott, expressing confidence that a leaders' declaration would be finalized.
His statement preceded a planned national shutdown organized by Women for Change, which is demanding that the government classify gender-based violence as a national disaster. The protest urges women and LGBTQI+ individuals to abstain from work to demonstrate their essential role in society and to push for increased funding and resources. The president also affirmed the G20's forward momentum despite a United States boycott, expressing confidence that a leaders' declaration would be finalized.
