GENDER BASED VIOLENCE IMPLICATIONS ON CHILD MARRIAGE IN SOUTH AFRICA

Abstract

Gender based violence implications on child marriage. The research question is what are the implications of gender based violence on child marriage. Child marriage is the marriage that takes place before a child reaches the age of 18 years. In South Africa, the practice of bridal abduction is regarded as one form of marriage (Nkosi and Buthelezi.2013:162). According to the SADC Protocol on Gender and Development, gender based violence is described as all acts perpetrated against women, men, girls and boys on the basis of their sex which, cause or could causes them physical , sexual , psychological, emotional or economic harm. Including the threat to take such acts. Community Survey 2016 confirms that there are more than 91 000 girls in South Africa between the ages of 12 and 17 that are married, divorced, separated, widowed or living with partner as husband and wife, with the latter forming the majority group. The most suitable approach is qualitative research. The research design is exploratory, descriptive and contextual. The study will use desktop or literature review design, which is a critical evaluation of published material. The aim is to develop an in depth understanding of the implication of gender-based violence on child marriage in South Africa, describe the findings, draw conclusions, and make recommendations.