A Critical Race Feminist Conceptualization of Violence: South African And Palestinian Women

This article seeks to conceptualize violence against women under both international and foreign domestic law from the perspective of critical race feminism. By rejecting the 'outside/inside' dichotomy of international law and placing women of colour at the centre of the analysis the author articulates the interaction of international and domestic laws in the struggle to improve the lives of black women in South Africa and the Middle East. The author illustrates how both groups of women have faced violence within the family, society and the state and argues that if the private/ public distinction is maintained in domestic laws, women will continue to remain largely unprotected from violence by non-state actors. Suggested solutions include implementation of international declarations, constitutional provisions and education.