On March 26, 2025, the Roots to Rise End GBVF Event brought together a range of voices committed to addressing gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) in South Africa. A key part of the event was a break away session “Influencing the Narrative,” to discuss the role of media and communicators in supporting the movement to end GBVF. This session focused on how messaging shapes public understanding of GBVF and the role of media, activists, and communities in ensuring responsible communication. This is what emerged from the session:

Rebranding Men

The session challenged the idea that men should only be seen as perpetrators while women are only victims. This oversimplifies reality. While research and statistics reveal that perpetrators are predominantly men, many men are also working to stop violence, supporting survivors, and taking responsibility for changing harmful attitudes. President Cyril Ramaphosa, at the 3rd African Union Men’s Conference on Positive Masculinity in November 2023, highlighted that men have a critical role in ending GBVF, saying, “Men are, in the main, the perpetrators of violence against women and girls. At the same time, it is men who have the power to bring about the change we so sorely need.” Recognising men as part of the solution allows for broader engagement in prevention efforts.

Correct Labelling

The words used to describe GBVF matter. When terms like “coerced into sex” are used instead of “rape,” or “domestic dispute” replaces “domestic violence,” the seriousness of these crimes is downplayed. Being clear about what happened helps survivors get justice and ensures the public understands the true scale of the problem. Calling things what they are ensures clarity in legal, media, and public discussions, making it easier to hold perpetrators accountable and support survivors.

Avoiding Sensationalism

While it is crucial to speak openly about the realities of GBVF, exaggeration or emotionally charged storytelling can sometimes do more harm than good. Sensationalised stories might grab attention, but they can also spread misinformation or desensitise people. The focus should always be on facts, survivors’ lived experiences, and highlighting solutions, rather than shock value. Responsible reporting builds trust and encourages action based on real issues, not fear or outrage.

Survivor Sensitivity

The way stories about GBVF are told can either support or harm survivors. The session emphasised the need to create safe, respectful spaces for survivors to share their experiences without feeling judged or pressured. Media and advocates must be careful not to exploit survivors’ stories for impact. Sensitivity in language, avoiding invasive questioning, and respecting survivors’ choices on when and how they speak are all key to ethical storytelling and advocacy.

Community Involvement

The session highlighted that real solutions to GBVF must come from within communities. People understand their own challenges better than anyone else and are more likely to trust local efforts than top-down policies. When communities take ownership of change, they can challenge harmful norms, create safe spaces for survivors, and hold perpetrators accountable. Addressing GBVF requires everyone, including families, schools, workplaces, and faith groups to be actively involved. Sustainable change happens when people see GBVF as a shared problem, not just an issue for activists or the government to solve.

Shifting the Narrative: A Shared Responsibility

Overall, the session highlighted how the media plays a powerful role in addressing GBVF. Our efforts against GBVF require all of us to rethink how we shape the conversation. It is not just about telling stories, it is about telling them responsibly, with accuracy, respect, and a focus on solutions.