SA Reaffirms Commitment to Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment at CSW69

Additionally, South Africa has conducted a national GBVF prevalence study to ensure that ongoing and future interventions are data-driven and scientifically grounded.

South Africa has once again underscored its unwavering commitment to the full implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (Beijing+30), advocating for gender equality and women’s empowerment on a global scale.

Minister in the Presidency responsible for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, delivered the country’s statement at the 69th Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69), currently underway at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. In her address, Minister Chikunga reaffirmed South Africa’s dedication to accelerating the realisation of the Beijing+30 agenda, emphasizing that gender equality is a constitutional imperative and a critical component of the country’s development strategy.

Key Highlights of South Africa’s Progress

Political Representation

Since the dawn of democracy in 1994, South Africa has made remarkable strides in women’s representation within government structures. Currently, women make up 43.5% of the national Parliament, a significant increase from the 28% recorded in 1994. Furthermore, 43% of Executive positions are now held by women, compared to just three female executives three decades ago.

Judiciary Advancements

The judiciary has seen substantial transformation, with 45% of judges being women as of February 2023. A historic milestone was achieved in 2024 when South Africa appointed its first-ever female Chief Justice and Head of the Constitutional Court, marking a pivotal moment in the country's judicial history.

Higher Education and STEM Inclusion

South Africa has surpassed gender parity in higher education, with over 60% of university and college graduates being women. The government is now intensifying efforts to increase female representation in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields, as well as in Artificial Intelligence and emerging technologies, to ensure women actively participate in the future workforce.

Comprehensive Social Protection System

Over the past three decades, South Africa has developed one of the most comprehensive social protection systems among developing nations. Through extensive social grants, millions of women and girls have been lifted out of poverty, ensuring greater economic security and resilience.

Tackling Gender-Based Violence and Femicide

A major challenge that remains is gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF). South Africa has responded with a whole-of-society approach, evidenced by the recent enactment of the National Council Act on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide. This law, signed by President Cyril Ramaphosa, reinforces the country’s commitment to preventing, eliminating, and responding to violence against women and girls in all spheres—public, private, online, and offline.

Additionally, South Africa has conducted a national GBVF prevalence study to ensure that ongoing and future interventions are data-driven and scientifically grounded.

South Africa’s Global Leadership in Gender Equality

As an influential player on the international stage, South Africa continues to champion gender equality through its leadership role in the G20 Ministerial Working Group on the Empowerment of Women. The country is spearheading initiatives such as:

• Promoting the care economy to recognize and support unpaid care work,
• Enhancing financial inclusion through preferential procurement policies for women-owned businesses,
• Ensuring equitable access to land, productive assets, and economic opportunities for women.

A Call for Continued Action

Despite the significant progress made, Minister Chikunga emphasized that much remains to be done.

“No democratic world or State can claim freedom unless women have been emancipated from all forms of oppression. Women and girls will be free, and this is our unwavering commitment,” she stated passionately.

The 69th Session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69) runs from March 10 to March 21, 2025, providing a platform for global leaders to reaffirm their dedication to gender equality and women’s empowerment.