A National Crisis: The Outrage of 41,312 Gender-Based Violence Cases in Eswatini




Let's talk about the bombshell report out of Eswatini: over 41,000 cases of gender-based violence in just four years! This isn’t just shocking—it’s infuriating. It’s a glaring testament to the systemic failure to protect the most vulnerable. The roots of this crisis run deep, embedded in outdated cultural norms and a legal system that’s not doing nearly enough.

Traditional gender roles and entrenched patriarchy fuel this epidemic. Cultural practices often place women in subordinate positions, making violence a tool of control. These norms aren’t just outdated—they’re deadly. It’s maddening that in 2024, we’re still grappling with these medieval mindsets.

The legal response? Let’s be real: it’s woefully inadequate. Yes, Eswatini has laws against GBV, like the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Act of 2018, but enforcement is a joke. Cops and courts are ill-equipped, undertrained, and often just plain indifferent. This has got to change. Survivors need to see justice, not face more hurdles.

Then there’s the lack of support for victims. It’s outrageous that survivors can’t access the comprehensive services they desperately need. Healthcare, counseling, shelters—these aren’t luxuries; they’re lifelines. The government needs to step up and fund these essential services properly.

Education is another battleground. We need to educate the young and old alike that violence is unacceptable. Schools should be teaching respect and equality, not outdated stereotypes. Community programs must challenge harmful norms head-on.

This fight isn’t just for the government. It’s everyone’s battle—NGOs, international bodies, and local communities need to unite. We need all hands on deck, pooling resources, expertise, and sheer willpower to turn the tide. International organizations can offer crucial support, bringing in best practices and much-needed funds.

The staggering number of GBV cases in Eswatini is more than a statistic; it’s a wake-up call. This is a crisis that demands immediate, relentless action. We can’t let these numbers paralyze us with shock—they need to spur us into action. The time for talk is over. It’s time to fight, to change, to make Eswatini a place where everyone can live without fear.

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