22 Jun 2004: ISS Seminar, Pretoria: Exploring the Links and Challenges to Policy: Guns and Violence Against Women in South Africa
SEMINAR: Exploring the Links and Challenges to Policy: Guns and
Violence Against Women in South Africa
Tuesday, 22 June 2004
Presented by the
With the new Firearms Control Act (FCA) entering into force in the next few
months in South Africa, discussions on issues and concerns regarding its implementation
are ongoing in South Africa ’s policy community.
One element of the FCA requiring further discussion is the impact of the
legislation on cases of domestic violence. As implementation strategies are
being prepared, this is an opportune time to explore points of conversion or
diversion between South Africa ’s Firearm Control Act and the Domestic
Violence Act, examining implications regarding both policy and implementation.
For example, will the new FCA adequately cover cases where gun-owners are engaged
in domestic violence? What lessons can be learned from the Domestic Violence
Act regarding training and implementation related to the Firearms Control
Act?
Speakers will include:
Fatima Bayat, Advice Desk for Abused Women, on
cases of domestic violence involving firearms
Jacklyn Cock, University of the Witwatersrand, on
gender and gun culture in South Africa
Margy Keegan, Gun Free South Africa, on implementation
of the Firearms Control Act and implications regarding violence against women
Representatives of South African Police Service (SAPS) Central
Firearms Registry and the Social Crimes Unit, to discuss police perspectives
Lisa Vetten, Centre for Violence and Reconciliation,
on problem of femicide in South Africa
Taya Weiss, Institute for Security
Studies research consultant, on policing violence against women and children
Time: 9:30am – 3pm
Venue: ISS, Block C, Brooklyn Court,
Veale Street East, Pretoria (map)
RSVP: Emily Schroeder, [email protected]
Tel: (012) 346 9500, ext.244, fax: (012) 346-4569
