DA : No justice for University rape victims

Oscar Thomas
11 October 2014

Democratic Alliance is greatly concerned that in the 15 Universities detailed in a reply to a DA Parliamentary question, a total of 247 cases of sexual violence, domestic violence, and rape over the past three years were reported, but of these only 60 resulted in internal charges being successfully brought to a conclusion by the University, and a mere two cases were reported to the police.

 

DA Minister of Higher Education and Training Belinda Bozzoli said Young University women are inhibited from reporting sexual crimes for a variety of reasons, including intimidation, ostracism and embarrassment. Many victims withdraw their cases soon after they have been reported, as reporting is often made taboo.

Bozzoli said most universities fail to provide a sufficiently supportive environment for young women in difficulty.

“There is a desperate need for institutions to provide anonymous and confidential facilities for victims to report sexual violence, and for universities and the authorities to make it clear to young people that gender-based violence is entirely unacceptable, and will result in severe punishment Bozzoli added.