South African team is trapped at remote Sanae IV base by encroaching ice and weather as southern hemisphere winter sets in

Summary

A South African scientist at the remote Sanae IV Antarctic base has been accused of sexual assault and violent threats, prompting urgent pleas for help.

The 10-person team is stranded for months due to extreme winter conditions. Officials were warned of the escalating situation as early as December but failed to act.

South Africa’s environment department has launched an investigation and is offering counseling.

The incident raises concerns over psychological screening for Antarctic missions, echoing past violent incidents in South Africa’s research programs.

  • JacksonLamb@lemmy.worldEnglish
    5·
    12 hours ago

    people complain about “rape culture” when hanging around scumbags

    Are you saying thst women scientists shouldn’t “hang around” Antarctica?

    Because that’s fucked up and another example of putting the emphasis on the victims actions.

    Rape culture only exists because we allow it to.

    NOW you’re on the right track. We as societies should be stepping down a lot harder on this crap.

    • cool@lemmings.worldEnglish
      41·
      12 hours ago

      I’m referring to the macrocosm of rape culture outside of Antarctica.

      We need to be willing to recognize and ostracize scumbags and womanizers. Unfortunately, we tend to elevate them to the highest positions of power in our social circles.

      That needs to change.