Violence, intimidation major barriers — experts

VIOLENCE against women in politics remains one of the least understood but most significant obstacles to gender equality in South Africa’s democracy, according to speakers at a Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) webinar on Wednesday ahead of the 2026 local government elections.

- KAREN SINGH

Gender Links’ Gender and Governance Associate Susan Tolmay said women continue to face a range of threats and abuse simply for Participating in political life, creating barriers that often prevent women from entering or remaining in leadership positions.

According to United Nations research, 80% of women politicians reported experiencing psychological violence, and 67% reported sexual violence.