Domestic violence remains a pervasive social and human rights challenge in South Africa, undermining the safety, dignity, and well-being of survivors, particularly women. This study examines the influence of international human rights instruments, such as CEDAW, DEVAW, and the Maputo Protocol, on the development, implementation, and effectiveness of national domestic violence laws. The problem statement highlights persistent gaps in enforcement, socio-cultural barriers, and inconsistencies between domestic legislation and international standards, which limit the protection of victims. The study adopts a systematic qualitative methodological approach, combining document analysis of international and national legal instruments, literature review, and case studies to explore normative alignment, legislative domestication, enforcement challenges, and stakeholder engagement. Key findings indicate that international instruments provide essential normative guidance for domestic law reform but that effective enforcement is constrained by institutional weaknesses, socio-cultural norms, and resource limitations. Multi-sectoral collaboration among government, law enforcement, civil society, communities, religious organizations, the private sector, and diaspora actors emerges as a critical strategy for enhancing the protection of survivors. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that aligning domestic violence legislation with international human rights standards requires not only legal reform but also institutional capacity building, community engagement, and continuous monitoring. The findings provide actionable recommendations for policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders, aiming to create safer communities, strengthen survivor protection, and advance gender equality in South Africa.