How to file a complaint with the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE)

If you have been treated unfairly because of your gender, sexuality or pregnancy, whether it’s discrimination, sexual harassment, bullying or gender-based violence, the Commission for Gender Equality (GCE) is here to help you take action.

The role of the CGE is to ensure that every South African enjoys equal rights, opportunities and dignity no matter their gender.

Role of the CGE

The GCE also handles systemic investigations that seeks to address challenges or practices that are common across a sector, affecting many people.

Here’s how to report your complaint to the CGE.

Step 1: Gather your information

Before you contact the CGE, write down the key details of what happened.

• When and where the incident took place
• Who was involved
• Any evidence or documents that support your case

This helps the CGE understand your situation better.

Step 2: Choose how you want to submit your complaint

You can contact the CGE in four easy ways:

1. Online: Fill in the complaint form on www.cge.org.za/complaints-2
2. WhatsApp: Send a message to 083 284 2567
3. Email: Write to Gender-enquiries@cge.org.za
4. Visit: Walk into any of the GCE’s 10 offices nationwide

All services are free and confidential.

Step 3: The CGE assesses and investigates

Once your complaint is received, the CGE’s legal department will:

• Assess whether it falls within the CGE’s mandate
• Investigate the facts
• Try to resolve the issue through mediation or other appropriate action
• Where necessary, refer the matter for further legal or systemic intervention

Step 4: Stay informed

You will be kept updated on your case as it moves through the process. The CGE will communicate outcomes and recommendations once the matter is finalised

Why the CGE exists

The CGE is an independent constitutional body established in accordance with section 181 of the Constitution of South Africa, 1996, with constitutional powers set out in section 187. The CGE has the mandate to promote respect for gender equality and to protect, develop, and achieve gender equality in the Republic. 

The powers and functions of the CGE are further outlined in the Commission for Gender Equality Act 39 of 1996 (CGE Act).

Help is available!

You can contact the Commission for Gender Equality online, via Whats-App or email, or visit any of its ten offices nationwide.

To follow the work of the CGE follow their social media platforms 

X: @cge-live

Facebook: Commission for Gender Equality

LinkedIn: Commission for Gender Equality

Instagram: @cgelive 

TikTok: @gendercommission 

Website: www.cge.org.za

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