GL Opinion and Commentary Service
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The Gender Links Opinion and Commentary Service provides mainstream media with fresh perspectives on the news.
Initiated in 2003, the Service aims to produce ten opinion pieces each month from writers across Africa on topical news items. These articles are integrated into various media sources and are uploaded onto the GMDC website for online viewing.
This service provides an opportunity for contributers to speak their mind on a variety of relevant and often controversial subjects.
To view articles please scroll below or for specific search terms, click here
If you are interested in contributing to the service or publishing any of the articles, contact Saeanna Chingamuka at editor@genderlinks.org.za.
*When publishing articles from the Gender Links Opinion and Commentary Service, the Service must be cited.
365 Days of Action to End Gender Violence
01 May 06
Regional relevance: South Africa
South Africans are waiting with bated breath for judgment in the Zuma case that will be televised across the nation, possibly as early as 8 May. No matter what the verdict, a stark reality will remain. As we celebrate the tenth anniversary of our Constitution, its lofty provisions are still just so many words for... [read more]
The facts about the amicus curiae application in the Zuma trial
03 April 06
Regional relevance: South Africa
Despite the fact that the amicus application was ultimately unsuccessful its benefit is that the very issues that the amici wanted to put before the court are now firmly in the public domain and will hopefully continue to influence and contribute to the public debate about the case and the broader issues around... [read more]
An open letter to a sister in need
29 March 06
I write per the direction of the National Gender Machinery and behalf of my sisters and colleagues, in the hope that you find solace in knowing that you have our support in your continued and brave quest to access your democratically guaranteed rights. [read more]
Zuma trial sends grim message to survivors of violence
22 March 06
Regional relevance: South Africa
It is clear is that many rape survivors who have been watching the Zuma rape trial unfold in the media will think twice about reporting rape and subjecting themselves to a process that fails to protect them and uphold their dignity. [read more]
South African women make big gains in local elections
13 March 06
Regional relevance: South Africa
South African women have made history in the just ended local government elections, with representation up from 29 percent in 2000 to 40 percent in the 1 March polls. The steady increase in the proportion of women in local government (that began at 19 percent in the first local elections in 1995) now places women in... [read more]
South Africa exports a culture of sexual abuse
10 March 06
Regional relevance: South Africa
It is with little irony that a South African peacekeeper is on trial accused of allegedly abusing (and killing) a Burundian minor, the same week that the man who was the architect of Burundi?s peace is on trial for rape in the Johannesburg High Court. If there are analogies to be drawn, it must be between the link... [read more]
Who is doing the talking on radio talk shows?
08 March 06
Regional relevance: South Africa
When a woman called in to a South African radio talk show to give her opinion on the high profile Schabir Shaik trial and how this had turned the spotlight on then Deputy President Jacob Zuma, the host her whether she understood political issues. This question however, was not posed to any of the predominantly male... [read more]
Women consumers of media must flex their muscles
03 March 06
Regional relevance: South Africa
Media is about money. This is a truth that is often forgotten in the sometimes idealistic discussions about freedom of expression, fair representation of minority groups, the development of culture and community and indeed, about diversity. [read more]
The sobering face of diversity
24 February 06
Regional relevance: International
The day after the terrorist attack on London in 2005, the front page of The Sun, one of the most xenophobic British tabloids, carried photos of two young women: one white and one Arab; Christian and Moslem, with one caption, ?Pray for All of Them?. The message could not have been clearer: regardless their religion,... [read more]
Zuma trial reflects South Africa?s response to rape
22 February 06
Regional relevance: South Africa
Despite South Africa?s progressive Constitution women?s occupation of public and private spaces remains limited and constantly under siege. As we stood outside the court on the first day of the rape trial it was clear how even those of us gathered to support the complainant in the case were under siege, our space... [read more]
