Issued by: Ministry of Justice
MEDIA RELEASE BY THE MINSTER OF JUSTICE REGARDING THE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF NO VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN
Today, 25 November 1997, is the International Day of No Violence Against Women. I, Dr A M Omar MP, Minister of Justice and my Department hereby pledge our solidarity with the female and children victims of violence in our country by observing a 15 minute work stoppage at 15:15, today. Members of my Department as well as myself have also taken part in the National Men's March against violence against women, rape and abuse, to promote a notion that violence and abuse against women and children by men will not be tolerated. furthermore, my Department was involved in raising awareness to this extend through the wide distribution of caps, bumper stickers and leaflets. We also adopted the slogan "Heard the new? There's no excuse for women abuse."
To further strengthen my point it must be stressed that the Department of Justice was the first Department who had gender policy considerations on the table. We were also instrumental to the development of the National policy guidelines for victims of sexual offences. During this year much has been done to create an awareness for this national problem. Efforts were made to get women more involved in legal principles and aspects and a number of open court days were held throughout the country.
Abuse of women and children is a public scourge that must be fought with all the strength from the home front, public and religious platforms. While the Department of Justice is supportive of women and children by ensuring that the necessary legislation is in place, it is however our men who need to be re-educated. We need commitment from the menfolk throughout the country that they will start treating women and children with respect.
ISSUED BY THE CHIEF DIRECTORATE: COMMUNICATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE PRETORIA 25 NOVEMBER 1997
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