This book explores how transitional justice mechanisms can address sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) and femicide in South Africa. The central argument is that SGBV and femicide in South Africa are deeply rooted in historical injustices, the legacy of apartheid, entrenched cultural and religious norms, and pervasive patriarchal structures. Bringing together feminist theory, transitional justice studies, historical analysis, critical assessments of domestic and international frameworks, and lessons learned from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, it offers a holistic, intersectional strategy and survivor-centered solutions for addressing structural violence. It will be of interest to researchers in gender studies, women’s studies, feminist theory, and human rights law, as well as policymakers and activists concerned with gendered violence.

Stephanie Wild is public information associate for the UN Department of Peace Operations, focusing on sexual exploitation and abuse, as well as an associate researcher for SecurityWomen, a NGO advocating for increasing women’s representation in the security sector. Her research focuses on the implementation of transitional justice mechanisms to address femicide and SGBV in South Africa.