Hate Crime and the Hate Speech Bill

In the introduction of the Hate Crimes Bill to the public, South African Justice Minister Michael Masutha explained that, “A hate crime is committed if a person commits any recognised offence that is a common law or statutory offence... and the commission of that offence is motivated by unlawful bias, prejudice or intolerance. The Bill goes further in criminalising hate speech, which it defines as the intentional communication or advocacy of hatred towards a person or group with the aim of inciting violence or harm. The communication of ‘contempt or ridicule’ over public online platforms is also outlined as a crime. Although the Bill claims to provide for the prevention of hate crimes and hate speech, as well as reporting on the implementation, its application and administration as an integrated approach from government is unclear.To help us unpack and discuss this further we are joined on the line by:• Tshego Phala Lawyer at Webber Wentzel • Jabulani Chen-Perriera CEO of Iranti-Org• Giet khoza Pastor/CEO RHEMA Bible Church