The FW de Klerk Foundation views the ongoing escalation of xenophobic violence, intimidation, and the scapegoating of foreign nationals in South Africa with profound alarm. We write this to state clearly: such acts are not merely “community grievances” – they are a direct, violent, and unacceptable affront to the foundational values of our 1996 constitutional settlement.
For millions of South Africans, the Constitution promises open, accountable and responsive government, dignity, equality and access to basic services like water. Yet for many communities, those promise collapses at local government level. Water taps run dry, refuse is not collected, potholes are permanent and corruption goes unpunished.
VVC v JRM clarifies how South African law treats couples who first marry under customary law and later conclude a civil marriage. The Court held this is one continuous marriage, not a new one. Rights and obligations from the customary marriage continue and property accumulated remains protected. Spouses cannot informally change proprietary rights; any change to the matrimonial property system requires court approval under section 21 of the Matrimonial Property Act. Interpreting section 10(2) of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act with the MPA, the judgment advances equality, dignity, the protection of property rights and legal certainty, protecting vulnerable spouses and creditors.
Christo van der Rheede responds to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent comments on race classification that have sparked a heated debate about South Africa’s journey towards equality.
Daniela Ellerbeck considers developments relating to section 9 of the Constitution – the right to equality – as outlined in the FW de Klerk Foundation’s 2024 Human Rights Report, with a specific focus on gender equality in the workplace.
The FW de Klerk Foundation extends its heartfelt congratulations to the Class of 2024 for their outstanding achievement in the National Senior Certificate (“NSC”) examinations.
Ismail Joosub recognises the new milestone South Africa reached in terms of constitutionality, diversity and dignity as the Department of Home Affairs begins to recognise Muslim marriages.
The Foundation commends its University of Pretoria representatives, Ngcwelekazi Dlanjwa and Gugulethu Ngwenya, for contributing to policy discussions regarding BRICS.
On 24 September, South Africans will once again celebrate Heritage Day – which was established to give recognition to South Africa’s rich and diverse linguistic, religious and cultural heritage.
