The Silent Epidemic: Gender-Based Violence in South African Workplaces

Despite decades of progress toward equality, workplaces across South Africa remain fraught with gender-based violence (GBV), leaving countless women vulnerable to harassment, bullying, and abuse. Advocates like Kovini Moodley and other outspoken leaders are pushing back, demanding change to ensure that workplaces become safe havens rather than battlegrounds.

Gender-Based Violence, A Persistent Threat

 In a society that has enjoyed 30 years of democracy, the workplace should be a sanctuary of respect and opportunity. Instead, many women live in fear—not only of experiencing harassment but also of reporting it. The stigma, retaliation, and systemic dismissal of these issues have perpetuated a toxic cycle.

Kovini Moodley, a seasoned advocate for social justice and human rights, has called for immediate action. Speaking during South Africa's 16 Days of Activism against GBV, she highlighted the alarming prevalence of these issues in professional settings, describing it as a silent pandemic that often goes unchecked.

The Workplace Reality

 Ntombomzi Ngada, a labour law specialist, paints a grim picture of reality. From CEOs to junior staff, women across industries have reported enduring harassment, bullying, and worse. Despite their skills and contributions, they are forced to navigate a minefield of gender-based challenges.

“Companies often prioritize profits over the well-being of their employees,” Ngada observes. “This negligence not only damages lives but also erodes workplace trust and productivity.”

Meanwhile, diversity and inclusion expert Nene Molefi sheds light on how gaslighting and verbal abuse are weaponized to silence victims. “Standing up to bullying can lead to devastating retaliation,” she warns, noting that many victims face unjust dismissals or feel compelled to resign.

Voices for Change

 Advocates like Vongai Marabwa are adamant about breaking the cycle. “We need to dismantle the culture of silence,” Marabwa asserts. “Empowering victims to speak without fear and fostering environments where respect is non-negotiable are crucial steps forward.”

Industrial psychologist Sylvia Baloyi agrees, pointing to power imbalances as a root cause of workplace bullying and harassment. "Exploiting authority to demean others is not leadership—it's abuse," she states.

Adding to the conversation, Sizakele Mathaba explores the cultural undertones of workplace GBV. She highlights how entrenched notions of masculinity and societal expectations often fuel toxic behaviors. "When women outpace men in opportunities, these power struggles frequently surface as bullying," she explains.

 Moodley insists that 2024 must mark the turning point. “We cannot remain silent any longer. Change begins when individuals and organizations take a stand together against all forms of GBV,” she declares.

Carmen Murray, the founder of Conscious Leaders, echoes this call to action. “Let’s create a zero-tolerance culture where everyone can work and thrive without fear,” she urges.

Help Is Available

Support systems like the TEARS Foundation are stepping in to assist. Founder Mara Glennie emphasizes the importance of immediate, compassionate intervention for survivors. “The first contact—being heard and believed—is transformative for survivors seeking healing,” she explains.

 Gender-based violence in the workplace is not just a women’s issue; it’s a societal one. The voices of advocates, survivors, and allies are growing louder, demanding systemic change. By standing together, South Africans can build a future where every workplace prioritizes safety, respect, and equality for all.