Gender-responsive rehabilitation in South African correctional facilities: Addressing the unique needs of incarcerated women

Women constitute a minority within South African correctional facilities; however, their experiences of incarceration are distinct, shaped by gendered vulnerabilities, histories of trauma, and socio-economic marginalisation. Despite constitutional guarantees of equality and international obligations under the Bangkok Rules and CEDAW, rehabilitation programs remain largely male-oriented, overlooking women’s specific needs. This study critically examines the importance of gender-responsive rehabilitation in South African prisons, emphasising how tailored interventions can promote rehabilitation, reduce recidivism, and support reintegration. The objectives were to (i) assess the extent to which existing rehabilitation programmes address the needs of incarcerated women, (ii) identify gaps in policy and practice, and (iii) propose a framework for gender-responsive interventions aligned with international standards. A qualitative research design was employed, drawing on policy analysis, semi-structured interviews with correctional officials, and a thematic review of the secondary literature. The findings reveal that while rehabilitation services exist, they are predominantly modelled on male offenders, neglecting issues such as maternal care, trauma recovery, gender-based violence, and vocational training relevant to women’s socio-economic realities. Limited resources, institutional bias, and inadequate policy enforcement further constrain effective service delivery. The study concludes that adopting gender-responsive rehabilitation not only advances human rights but also enhances correctional outcomes by addressing the lived realities of women. This study highlights the intersection between gender and corrections, offering evidence-based recommendations to policymakers and reinforcing the need for inclusive correctional strategies that align with South Africa’s constitutional and international obligations.