Do you feel South Africa is addressing the underrepresentation of women in leadership and decision-making positions?
Daniela Ellerbeck, FW de Klerk Foundation:
A: In South Africa, women make up about 51% of the population but are significantly under-represented in decision-making roles, with men holding 67% of management positions as of Q2 2022. Out of 806,000 employers, nearly 650,000 are men, highlighting persistent gender imbalances in the economy. Although gender parity in education was achieved in 2022 and women have a higher life expectancy (69.2 years) compared to men (63.6 years), women face substantial barriers to economic access. Research from 2023 reveals that women often encounter sexual violence and harassment when seeking employment or business funding. Safety is a major concern, as crime statistics show rising rates of violent crimes against women, including murder, assault, and rape. This underscores the need for a safer environment to foster economic equality. While South Africa has implemented laws such as the Domestic Violence Amendment Act of 2021 and proposed the GBV and Femicide Bill, enforcement remains insufficient. Between October 2022 and March 2023, 77 GBV-related cases in the Western Cape were dismissed due to police inefficiency, highlighting the need for effective law enforcement to address gender-based violence and promote economic parity.
Kile Wotshela, KAS Scholar:
A: In the 30 years since the end of apartheid, South Africa has made significant strides in advancing women’s rights and representation. Historically, women faced severe restrictions, unable to make key economic and personal decisions without male consent. Today, women hold 46% of parliamentary seats and 29% of board positions in listed companies, surpassing the G20 average of 20%. In leadership roles, women occupy 43.5% of positions in national government, 40.4% in state-owned enterprises, and 38.9% in higher education, according to a 2023 McKinsey report.
Despite these achievements, progress in the private sector, particularly in JSE-listed companies, remains slow. Addressing the underrepresentation of women in decision-making roles requires ongoing commitment from both public and private sectors. Enhancing opportunities through mentorships and development programs for young women can further support their growth into leadership positions.’
Christina Teichmann, FW de Klerk:
A: The South African government has made significant progress in addressing the underrepresentation of women in leadership and decision-making roles, resulting in improved female representation in Parliament and the public sector. However, progress in the private sector has been slower, with male leaders and decision-makers still predominant. Achieving gender balance in this sector will require a concerted effort from all members of society.
What is the significance of celebrating Women’s Month in post-Apartheid South Africa?
Kile Wotshela: KAS Scholar:
A: Women’s Month commemorates the 20,000 women who marched to the Union Buildings in protest against apartheid Pass Laws. This month is a time to recognize the significant political and socio-economic progress women have made in South Africa. However, challenges remain, including high unemployment rates among young women, the gender pay gap, domestic violence, and period poverty.
Women’s Month is also an opportunity to inspire and uplift girls, highlighting their potential and achievements rather than solely focusing on the challenges they face. It serves as a reminder to those who hinder progress that women are capable of breaking barriers and reaching their career and life goals. For me, as a young Black woman, this month holds particular significance as it underscores the achievements of Black women in South Africa and celebrates the ongoing progress toward equality, especially gender equality.
Sylvia Msimango, South African Council of Churches:
A: While more women today have access to opportunities across the spectrum, there are still many challenges that continue to hold them back. According to a UN Sustainable Development Goals study, it will take 140 years for women to be represented equally in positions of power and leadership in the workplace. As we prepare to commemorate 30 Years of Freedom everyone must do more to ensure women are empowered so we can grow our economy. Let this be the year where we come together and find ways to unleash the potential of women to drive the economy and ensure more inclusive and sustainable development.
How can South Africa improve its legal/political frameworks to better advance and promote gender equality?
Christina Teichmann:
A: The political will to uphold the constitutional right to gender equality and enact progressive legislation is essential for leveling the playing field. However, while legislation is a critical step, it can only do so much to alter women's lived experiences. The more challenging task is to transform deep-seated gender hierarchies and traditional role models that have been constructed over centuries and perpetuated across generations.
Brenda Steyn, FW de Klerk Foundation,
A: Improving legal and political frameworks to advance gender equality benefits both women and national development. Strengthening laws against gender-based violence, such as rape, with clearer definitions, harsher penalties, and better victim protections is crucial. Additionally, enhancing support systems for survivors, including shelters, counseling, and legal aid, is needed, as current efforts in South Africa and globally are insufficient. Women’s Month offers an opportunity to collaborate with NGOs and community groups to leverage their expertise and reach in promoting gender equality. Encouraging community involvement in gender equality initiatives and awareness campaigns can further drive progress. Key actions include regularly reviewing and amending gender equality laws to address gaps and align with international standards, and ensuring strict compliance with these laws, including the implementation of harsher penalties for violations.
Daniela Ellerbeck, FW de Klerk Foundation:
A: Until South Africa succeeds in making it safe for women when they are trying to participate in the economy, the problem of gender inequality in the economy will persist.
Kile Wotshela, KAS Scholar:
A: While representation is important, empowering women is even more crucial. There is a significant opportunity to leverage technology and social media to raise awareness about gender inequality. South Africans are keen to advance gender equality and recognize the vital role women play in society. We need to ask, "How can we improve?" in ways that are sustainable and inclusive, bringing both women and men to the table. South Africa has valuable frameworks like the Women Empowerment and Gender Equality Bill (2013) that support gender equality and the appointment of women to leadership positions. These frameworks have been instrumental in our progress, but now it’s time to turn our commitments into actions—deeds, not just words.
