Build One SA deputy president Nobuntu Hlazo-Webster affirmed that publishing the Sex Offenders List is a greater step to deterring aspiring sexual offenders, especially those who target children. Picture: File
Build One South Africa (Bosa) has welcomed the decision taken by the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development to publish the National Register for Sex Offenders (NRSO).
The Justice Ministry recently announced the register will be released for the public to access by the end of February.
Bosa has been petitioning for the release of Sex Offenders List for almost two years in efforts to intensify the fight against gender-based violence (GBV).
The petition has since garnered nearly 20 000 signatures.
Bosa deputy president Nobuntu Hlazo-Webster affirmed that publishing the list is a greater step to deterring aspiring sexual offenders.
Programme manager for Social Welfare Services at the Thari Programme, Peter Mahani, argued publishing the list is not a sustainable solution in either minimising, or eradicating the scourge of GBV in South Africa.
Mahani said releasing the register is a temporary deterrence for high-risk offenders because their sex crimes are psychologically-rooted, especially crimes against children.
“The reduction of GBV requires a comprehensive set of interventions. Publishing a list of sex offenders is not a sustainable solution to reducing gender-based violence on its own,” said Mahani.
Releasing offenders’ names shies away from addressing the root causes of GBV and sexual violence, which commonly stem from toxic masculinity, and gender-inequality, among others.
Hlazo-Webster and Mahani concurred that the list publicly holds perpetrators accountable for their crimes against the vulnerable.
It will also warn the public of repeat offenders who are lurking in the community, the workplace and especially, child-infiltrated institutions.
“Publication of an offenders list assists organisations working with children to ensure their safety.
“Increased transparency will also promote community vigilance, also aiding in the fight against sexual abuse and gender-based violence,” they said.
Mahani said society is collectively responsible for ending GBV, despite many believing the State should solely eradicate violence perpetrated against vulnerable groups.
“Reducing GBV is a collective responsibility involving the government, law enforcement, communities, civil society organisations, and individuals.
“The government plays a key role by implementing strong legal frameworks, ensuring justice for survivors, and promoting awareness programs,” he said.
Mahani emphasised world leaders, especially males, must embody the protection of women and children.
Additionally, schools are an important pillar that should promote gender-education and its nuances to children.
“We have far too many cases of male leaders whom society looks up to being exposed of GBV and abuse.
“Schools have a particular role to play in socialising our children differently, and promoting gender sensitivity and equality,” said Mahani.
As the release of the register had been long overdue, Hlazo-Webster reiterated it must result in the real protection of women and children.
She demanded that the list should provide clarity on legal consequences for offenders who attempt to hide their criminal careers.
In addition, the Sex Offenders List must urge the State to enforce harsher sentences and protection orders, establish special courts that deal with related cases, and provide quality support for GBV victims.
“We will work with government and other stakeholders to continue the fight against GBV,” said Hlazo-Webster.
The Star
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