Women with disabilities likely to be at risk of GBV

Women with disabilities are two to four times more likely to be at risk of gender-based violence (GBV) than other women, according to disability rights advocacy group Blind SA.

It said the presence of a disability increases one’s risk of sexual violence for women. This was highlighted during the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children.

Blind SA gender-based violence and femicide portfolio secretary Irene Azwifaneli Mashele said women living with a disability are not taken seriously when reporting sexual abuse or exploitation cases.

“Blind women are at greater risk because you might find out that someone gets raped on their way to work or at their home and when reporting it, it won’t go anywhere because they can’t identify the perpetrator,” said Mashele.

More awareness campaigns, marches, and making use of social media and other forms of media could be used to highlight the challenges women with disabilities face abuse and violence.

Western Cape Network on Disability co-ordinator Natalie Johnson said it was not only women with disabilities but men, too, who were also at a greater risk of sexual violence and abuse.

“There is a lack of physical strength to fight off the perpetrator. If intellectually challenged, individuals could lack the ability to give informed consent.

“The perpetrators are mostly parents, ­caregivers, relatives, close friends and when taught not to question those older (patriarchal families), making it difficult to say no.

In Other News – Fikile Mbalula announces grace period for expired licences

Drivers’ licenses that expired from 26 March 2020 to 31 December 2020 have been extended for a seven-month grace period.

According to the latest Government Gazette, learners’ licenses, driving license cards, temporary license cards, and professional driving permits are deemed valid for a grace period ending 31 August 2021. learn more

Source – IOL