Social Issues
latest news & developments
The Case for Being a “Nosy” Neighbour
In estates and complexes, we often hear everything from barking dogs to late-night parties. But when the noise is a scream, why do we hesitate to act? A writer shares her…
What South Africa’s latest unemployment figures mean for a generation still waiting
Millions of young South Africans will vote in November without ever having held stable employment. Persistent unemployment is delaying economic independence for an entire…
Xenophobia is becoming Africa's new nationalism: South Africa is not alone
While South Africa often faces condemnation for xenophobic attacks, this article argues that anti-migrant sentiment is a continent-wide issue with deep historical roots,…
The father wound SA won’t name
While South Africa dedicates August to confronting gender-based violence, this article challenges us to address an uncomfortable dimension: the violence inflicted by fathers. It…
The ‘Othered’ red herring of false narrative
A debate on xenophobia in South Africa highlights the debunking of a bogus statistic claiming international migrants commit 60% of crimes. Experts reveal that migrant crime rates…
When parenting reaches breaking point, ‘Bad Behaviour’ asks who we trust with our children
A new M-Net documentary series, 'Bad Behaviour', delves into South Africa's growing 'troubled teen' industry, questioning the practices of behavioural correction camps and…
South Africa’s migration crisis: hear no evil, see no evil, speak no evil
For decades, Black South Africans and African foreign nationals have built communities together, a historical reality that challenges narratives of inherent xenophobia. However,…
Football’s Bigotry is not confined to the stands
Prejudice in sport is society in miniature, and racism at the World Cup is a recurring indictment. This article explores how football authorities often treat racism as a PR…
Why some boys are choosing toilets over classrooms
The author reflects on a high school incident that highlights a deeper issue: why many black boys in South Africa are disengaged from the education system. With matric results…
Streets in Johannesburg and surrounds unusually quiet as citizens remain on edge during anti-illegal immigrant protests
South African cities, including Johannesburg and its surrounds, are experiencing an unusual calm as residents remain on edge amidst anticipated anti-illegal immigrant protests.…
The June 30 ultimatum: Which ferry will South Africa choose?
Inspired by the Joker's sadistic social experiment in The Dark Knight, this article explores South Africa's current moral dilemma as a June 30 ultimatum by vigilante groups…
A broken home looking for a villain to blame
As many marched to demand the removal of undocumented migrants from South Africa, the message was clear: migrants must go. But this article argues that the anger is misdirected,…
Resolve the crisis without Afrophobia
Businessman and ANC activist George Dingizulu Moyo, rooted in Alexandra's struggle and with Zimbabwean heritage, reflects on South Africa's immigration crisis. He advocates for…
South Africa’s crisis of state authority and when citizens begin deporting people
South Africa is grappling with a crisis that extends beyond immigration, questioning the very essence of governance. Anti-immigration groups like Operation Dudula and March and…
The youth of 1976 fought apartheid. Today's youth are fighting something harder to name
A child of Tembisa reflects on Youth Day, contrasting the 1976 fight against apartheid with the contemporary struggles of young people for economic and social freedom amidst…