2015 has dealt South Africa’s diplomatic reputation a hefty blow. Continued labor unrest and an unstable socio-economic situation does not bode well for a country bent on transformation.
The events that have represented South Africa in the Media this year depict a society divided . . . unable to find compromise without violence and extremism. The addition of radical political party, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) to parliament has set the tone for citizens to imitate the behavior of this party that now forms a part of the country’s leadership.
The EFF kicked off 2015 by leading land invasions. This resulted in home seekers erecting shacks on state and privately owned land. The EFF claim that if nobody is using the land, it belongs to the people.
This was followed by a series of xenophobic attacks. Locals took up arms against African immigrants as they claim they were taking their jobs and women. The affected immigrant’s home countries have reacted by threatening to shut down South African businesses on their side of the border.
As of today Israel has refused the minister of higher education a VISA to enter their country deeming him “an enemy of Israel." The reason for Israel doing so is still unclear.
These events are not representative of the South African population as a whole however with over a quarter of the population "officially" unemployed and the income gap still growing, one can be almost certain that these events will continue to occur and stand as a barrier to much needed progress.
South Africa’s potential as the economic gateway to Africa is still in its infancy. It will take a masterful leader to channel this vast, multi-cultured nation to believe in a common vision for the country
Matthew Klynsmith earned a business administration diploma at CTI in Cape Town, South Africa. He now works at Strategic Options as an associate partner. To read more reports from Matthew Klynsmith, Go Here Now.
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