Project

Closing the Gender Gap in South Africa

It has been less than 20 years since South Africa abolished apartheid and embraced democracy. The rainbow nation is now recognized for having the strongest economy on the African continent and one of the most progressive, liberal constitutions. Laws calling for gender equality have been passed, gay marriage has been legalized, and violence against women outlawed.

However, statistics show violence against women in South Africa is still a major societal problem. Violence against the LGBTI community also often goes unpunished. Ingrained attitudes in this traditional, patriarchal society have not changed and in rural areas tribal courts still reign over the rights of women.

By telling stories of South African women of all sexualities, Melissa Turley shows how these women fight not only for the equal rights afforded them in their constitution, but also for their basic human rights and dignity.

October 04, 2012 | Pulitzer Center

South Africa: Life in Langa

Melissa Turley, for the Pulitzer Center

Although apartheid has ended, its legacy lives on. Many South Africans still make their home in townships, segregated areas where they relocated after being forcibly removed from "white only" land.

September 26, 2012 | Pulitzer Center

South Africa: Law of the Land

Melissa Turley, for the Pulitzer Center

Women in rural South Africa are often ruled by two sets of law—traditional and constitutional. Their rights are protected under one, denied under the other. Many search for the in-between.

September 24, 2012 | Pulitzer Center

South Africa: Life in Ulundi

Melissa Turley, for the Pulitzer Center

Ulundi is a village like hundreds of others in South Africa but some of the women are different. They are members of the Rural Women's Movement and they are willing to stand up for their rights.

October 26, 2012 | General news

This Week in Review: Salvation or Doom?

By Tom Hundley, for the Pulitzer Center

Pulitzer Center Senior Editor Tom Hundley highlights this week's reporting on Exxon Mobil’s multi-billion dollar Liquefied Natural Gas project in Papua New Guinea.