Assessing the Effectiveness of the Domestic Violence Amendment Act (2021) in Advancing SDG 5.2 in South Africa

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20505204

Afeez Folorunsho Lawal and Mahlogonolo Stephina Thobane (Department of Criminology and Security Science, College of Law, University of South Africa, South Africa)

The Domestic Violence Amendment Act (2021) marks an important overhaul of South Africa’s legal response to tackle gender-based violence. It aligns with SDG 5.2, which aims to eliminate all violence against women and girls. This study critically assesses the Act’s effectiveness by analysing secondary data, including violence statistics, government reports, South African Police Service (SAPS) records, legal documents, and academic research. Using feminist legal and socio-legal theories, the analysis explores how the Act updates legal definitions, strengthens protective measures, and shapes institutional practices. Findings show progress alongside ongoing challenges: the Act broadens the meaning of domestic violence, introduces electronic protection orders, and encourages intersectoral collaboration, yet issues with enforcement, survivor access, and systemic capacity persist. Findings indicate that the Act’s provisions align with the target of SDG 5.2. However, the potential of the legislation to improve protection and the legal process hinges on the capacity, disposition, and roles of the various stakeholders. The study concludes that the Act is a good response to violence against women and girls. Still, the impact will be felt more strongly through enhanced multi-sectoral collaboration, commitment, and coordination. Situating the Act in South Africa’s socio-legal context and its international commitments, the study recommends comprehensive reforms that incorporate legislative updates, institutional accountability, and community-based initiatives. The research concludes with evidence-based recommendations to support SDG 5.2 and enhance the efficiency of feminist-informed legal frameworks in tackling gender-based violence.