Deputy President Paul Mashatile has insisted that the government is not turning a blind eye to South Africa’s gender-based violence (GBV) crisis.

Tasha Siziba

Opening the Social Summit in Boksburg on Tuesday, Mashatile said the forum, much like the National Dialogue, aims to create inclusive, community-driven discussions on the country’s most pressing issues.

Women participants in the G20 Social Summit called for a shift in how they are perceived, saying they want to be recognised as leaders, not merely supporters. They also appealed to global policymakers to restore humanity and compassion in decision-making.

Mashatile dismissed suggestions that the government has downplayed GBV, saying authorities are “actively responding” to the crisis despite it not being classified as a national disaster.

His comments follow widespread online support for a WomenForChange campaign urging South Africans to change their profile pictures and highlight the country’s rising incidents of rape and femicide. The organisation also encouraged women to stay away from work for a day in protest.

“As we participate in this G20 Social Summit, it is important that we use this international platform to raise awareness, enhance accountability, and coordinate effective action,” Mashatile said. He warned that GBV continues to rob women and children of safety, dignity, and full participation in society.

With South Africa preparing to conclude its G20 presidency this weekend, Mashatile assured civil society groups that women’s concerns will be brought to the forefront as leaders meet.

Women attending the G20 Social Summit stressed that, in a world facing deepening inequality, environmental collapse, and weakening democratic values, women must act as the moral conscience of the G20.

Mashatile said, “The current moment demands greater unity, innovation, and urgency in efforts to end gender-based violence once and for all.”