In response to alarming rates of gender-based violence, South Africa recently declared it a national disaster, following a series of significant protests across the country. On November 21, 2025, hundreds of women gathered in various cities, including Johannesburg, to participate in a lie-down protest, symbolizing the 15 women killed daily due to gender-based violence. The protests were initiated by the nonprofit group Women for Change as part of a broader campaign urging for government intervention against gender violence and femicide. Notably, the government previously resisted this classification but changed its stance after evaluating ongoing societal risks. The lie-down protests served as both a visual and impactful statement about the devastating realities faced by South African women. Advocates aimed to bring attention to the issue ahead of the G20 summit, reflecting their insistence on prioritizing gender issues in global discussions. Numerous participants, including survivors of violence, expressed public grief and outrage, demanding more robust actions from the government to combat gender-based violence effectively. Participants wore black to symbolize mourning for the victims. Despite existing legal frameworks, expert opinions indicate that gender violence remains a pervasive issue in South Africa, compounded by a femicide rate five times the global average. The protests called for immediate legislative actions and raised awareness about the economic and social costs associated with gender violence, which many activists claim are neglected in broader developmental conversations. A petition organized in connection with the protests garnered over a million signatures, signaling widespread public support for urgent reform. Furthermore, President Cyril Ramaphosa highlighted the government's past commitments while acknowledging the inadequacies in implementation, lamenting that the declarations have not translated into effective action. As activists continue to mobilize, the protests spotlight a crucial moment in South Africa's socio-political landscape, emphasizing the need for accountability and justice in addressing gender-based violence. The call to action from recent protests may compel authorities to dedicate resources and enforce legal measures against offenders, indicating a potential turning point in the fight against gender-based violence in the nation.