Submission in the Context of Gender Equality: An Obstacle to Curbing Violence against Women in Intimate Relationships

Abstract

Despite the South African Bill of Rights, which envisages equality and protection of women against violence, discrimination and harmful practices, women in South Africa still experience a violation of their rights. Most women in intimate relationships are deprived of the right to equality with their male counterparts by virtue of their gender and the subordinate positions ascribed to them by, among others, tradition, religion, and socialisation. A critical analysis of women’s subordinate positions confirms that there is an impediment in the pursuit of gender equality and transformation. This article critically analyses how these subordinate positions hinder gender equality and frustrates the transformation agenda somewhat. The article highlights the consequences of women’s subordination in intimate relationships and suggests practical and ideological interventions to address the gender imbalances that perpetuate the oppression of women in South Africa.