File: "No means No " is written on the back of a woman. AFP/STR
AFP/STR
AFP/STR
DURBAN - Over 7-million women and girls have experienced physical violence in their lifetime.
But, this number may be much higher as many cases go unreported.
KZN Social Development says it's trying to make it easier for women to come forward. It's set up victim-friendly rooms with psycho-social support.
But, it says that work is being hampered by pervasive patriarchy.
KZN social development sets up victim-friendly rooms
The department is urging victims of gender-based violence to report so perpetrators can be arrested.
It comes after the Human Sciences Research Council found physical and sexual assault often go unreported.
The department acknowledges that many women find it difficult to report cases.
Under-reporting due to economic dependence