The Impact of Apartheid on intimate partner violence in South Africa

Abstract

This article explores the intricate relationship between apartheid and intimate partner violence (IPV) in South Africa. It examines how racial oppression through institutions and systemic violence established a culture of violence and aggression that institutionalised gender-based violence (GBV), including domestic violence (DV) and IPV. Previously, violence against women (VAW) had been normalised, with IPV treated as an individual issue, particularly within black communities. Apartheid reinforced not only a patriarchal system but also a racial and gendered hierarchy that further excluded black women, who were doubly disadvantaged on the basis of both their race and gender. South African IPV legislation evolved in the long shadow of apartheid ideas that are still reflected in existing laws. Despite democratic change and liberal reform to laws, the shadow of apartheid persists, as evidenced by IPV statistics and societal attitudes towards the abuse of women. Addressing this requires a multi-faceted approach entailing legal, social, and cultural reform supported by education, awareness campaigns, and community interventions to combat crimes such as IPV.