Examining Gender-Based Violence in the Context of the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence (SODV) Act of 2018 in Eswatini

Thembumenzi Ntshalintshali

doi:10.25159/2520-9515/21234

Authors

Thembumenzi Ntshalintshali University of Zululand https://orcid.org/0009-0008-3408-5395

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25159/2520-9515/21234

Keywords:

gender-based violence (GBV), Eswatini, Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Act, legal reform

Abstract

Gender-based violence (GBV) remains a major human rights and public health issue in Eswatini. The Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence (SODV) Act of 2018 was an important legislative milestone that attempted to increase legal protections for survivors while also criminalising a wider variety of abuses, such as marital rape and emotional abuse. However, few qualitative studies have looked into how the Act has been implemented. Using a qualitative exploratory design, this study looks into the SODV Act’s implementation and lived experiences. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 40 participants, men and women, including survivors, perpetrators, police officers, social workers, legal professionals, and policymakers. The findings demonstrate a chronic mismatch between legislative aim and practice. While the Act has enhanced legal recognition and reporting methods, structural patriarchy, a lack of public awareness, institutional strengthening, community engagement, and multi-sectoral cooperation remain challenges. The study adds to the literature on legal reform and gender justice in Southern Africa by emphasising implementation issues in socio-cultural and institutional contexts.

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