SOCIAL ENGINEERING SOLUTION TO GBV

Sir,

I am writing to express my thoughts on the pervasive issue of gender-based violence (GBV) in our society, as well as to challenge some prevailing notions regarding the effectiveness of legal frameworks in addressing this crisis.

But firstly, let me clarify that social engineering can refer to two distinct concepts, each relevant in different contexts: One in the realm of cybersecurity and the other in social sciences or political science and my interest is in the latter. In the field of social sciences, social engineering refers to the deliberate efforts by governments, organisations or groups to influence societal attitudes and behaviours on a large scale. This form of social engineering aims to produce desired social characteristics or changes through policies, education or media campaigns. It often involves strategic planning and implementation to reshape cultural norms or public perceptions, thereby fostering a particular social order or addressing societal issues.

Protect

It is evident that the law cannot protect a woman against a determined killer, and the imposition of death sentences has proven to be an ineffective deterrent for those who have made the decision to commit homicide. This grim reality forces us to reconsider our approach to GBV and the underlying societal structures that perpetuate it. Civic organisations often operate under the assumption that equality is the ultimate goal of social progress. However, this perspective can be overly simplistic. The belief that society was intended to be equal ignores the complex, complementary roles that individuals play based on their abilities, emotions and inherent traits associated with masculinity and femininity.

These roles, which have developed over time, reflect a natural order that should not be dismissed merely because of the noble intentions behind calls for equality. Furthermore, many non-governmental organisations (NGOs) are advocating for values that are heavily influenced by Eurocentric ideologies. This advocacy can often undermine and disregard traditional African cultures and values. The push for a de-masculinisation of males overlooks the cultural context and the potential repercussions of such actions.

Acknowledge

The notion that men are innately predisposed to violence is a dangerous oversimplification that fails to acknowledge the diverse motivations behind male behaviour, including the potential for vengeance when faced with perceived threats or injustices. To address the crisis of GBV effectively, we must engage in social engineering (in the Social Sciences context), a process that involves reshaping societal norms and values rather than relying solely on legal institutions. While strong legal frameworks are essential, they cannot substitute for a deep-rooted cultural transformation.

This transformation should focus on fostering respect and understanding between genders by acknowledging the distinct roles and responsibilities that each gender can fulfil within the family and community. Education plays a crucial role in this transformation. By implementing programmes that promote healthy relationships and respect for one another, we can begin to dismantle the toxic notions of masculinity that often lead to violence. Moreover, we must encourage open dialogues within communities, where both men and women can express their concerns and experiences regarding gender dynamics. This dialogue can help foster empathy and create a collective commitment to reducing violence.

Fight

While the legal system is an important component in the fight against GBV, it is not the sole solution. We must recognise that social engineering is essential for creating a safer environment for all individuals. This approach requires a nuanced understanding of cultural dynamics and a commitment to fostering respect across gender lines. By doing so, we can begin to address the root causes of GBV and work towards a society that is truly safe and just for everyone.

Samkelo Sgwa Dlamini

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