Our Mission
Just Detention International-South Africa is a health and human rights organisation that seeks to end sexual abuse in all forms of detention.
JDI-SA works to: hold government officials accountable for prisoner rape; promote public attitudes that value the dignity and safety of people in detention; and ensure that survivors of this violence get the help they need.
Contrary to popular opinion, sexual abuse in detention is preventable. Facilities with committed leaders, good policies, and sound practices can keep people safe. JDI-SA works with policymakers, activists, and corrections officials to ensure the basic human rights of all people in detention.
All of JDI-SA’s work is informed by the wisdom and experiences of prisoner rape survivors. When the government removes someone’s freedom, it takes on an absolute responsibility to keep that person safe. No matter what crime someone may have committed, rape is not part of the penalty.