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DEFEATING GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE

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 Sir,

It is an undisputable fact that humans are judgemental. It is high time we put an end to the judgement of perpetrators more especially abusers. The number of cases related to gender-based  violence have risen to an alarming rate over the years, making it difficult to turn a blind eye.


Imprisoning the abusers isn’t such a bad thing at all but I vehemently believe that one of the best ways to stop gender-based violence is through mental means. Abusers should join community groups so that they will understand why it is wrong to hit a woman. By understanding the impact of abuse on the victim, they will want to change and be better people in the society.


Stigma


In my observation, abusers find it difficult to change due to judgements in their communities. They are left with the stigma of being abusers for the rest of their lives. They are judged even when they try to repent. Some even do handicrafts as a way of giving back to their communities but still, they are judged. Communities fail to understand that these people were not born abusers but external factors led them to abuse women.
Personally, I believe that such perpetrators deserve another chance; not in the lives of the victims but in their communities. Good people, I am not condoning abuse but the main aim here is to raise awareness that abusers need their communities to help them change. Let us not forget that when we show people respect, support and appreciation, we take away their power.


Instead of being so judgemental, let us try and be supportive to both the perpetrator and victim. This will bring healing to them and enable communities to open support groups with less distractions. Communities should support those perpetrators who start their businesses locally as this helps them to stay away from drugs as well as other forces that lead them to abusing women. By helping the perpetrators change, we help build a safe environment for females.

Mamba Sihawukele Busisiwe

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