The media can play an essential part in the solution to the problem of violence against women in South Africa. It can reflect women’s experiences in all their diverse forms, direct people to find help, raise awareness, and encourage a critical, informed understanding of the problem. Poor coverage can endorse existing perceptions that perpetuate violence against women and can further victimise the survivor.

This publication aims to help journalists and newsroom decision-makers improve and increase their reporting on issues related to violence against women. It provides facts, figures and information on violence against women, identifies pitfalls in current coverage, and provides guidelines to help improve coverage.