This pillar focuses on addressing the root causes of gender-based violence and femicide in South Africa. It asks, “Why are we facing this crisis?” and aims to rebuild the societal structures that contribute to it. Key areas of focus include:

– Harmful ideas of masculinity that promote male control over women.

– Beliefs that women should be submissive to men.

– Early childhood exposure to violence, including bullying.

– Poverty, lack of education, and substance abuse.

Five-Year Outcomes

2.1. Strengthened delivery capacity in South Africa to roll out evidence-based prevention programmes;

2.2. Changed behaviour and social norms within key groups as a result of the rollout of evidence-based prevention interventions;

2.3. Shifts away from toxic masculinities towards embracing positive alternative approaches for expressing masculinities and other sexual and gender identities, within specific communities/groups;

2.4. Optimally harnessed Violence Against Children (VAC) programmes that have an impact on GBV eradication;

2.5. Increased cross fertilisation and integration of prevention interventions on violence against LGBTQIA+ persons with broader GBVF prevention and violence prevention interventions;

2.6. Strengthened programming that addresses the restoration of human dignity, builds caring communities and responds to historic and collective trauma;

2.7. Public spaces are made safe and violent free for all, particularly women and children.