Panel and Roundtable Discussions
Understanding the root causes of violence in South African Society (Gender based violence)
South Africa has one of the highest rates of violence against women (and children) in the world. It is generally accepted that it has reached epidemic proportions. Whilst much effort is going into measures aimed at preventing and treating the symptoms of the scourge, the ISI is eager to gain an understanding as to the root causes behind the phenomena in order to effectively design measures to combat it.
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Understanding the root causes of violence in South African Society (Xenophobia)
South Africa has been experiencing serious flame-ups and violence against foreigners. The recent xenophobic attacks in areas across the country have had a material impact on the economy and have harmed the country’s international relations. Whilst much effort is going into measures aimed at preventing and treating the symptoms of the scourge, the ISI is eager to gain an understanding as to the root causes behind the phenomena in order to effectively design measures to combat it.
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Towards an economic compact: Lessons from Germany’s ‘Concerted Action’
The South African economy is in a precarious position. Amongst other economic indicators, business confidence is at a twenty-year low, manufacturing confidence is down, unemployment is at an all-time high, government debt levels are moving into the danger zone, whilst economic growth remains stubbornly stagnant. The ISI considers conditions now to be conducive to engaging society on the need for an economic compact between the various economic role players. Such a compact would allow for special and calming measures aimed at stimulating investment, job creation, the introduction of less intrusive labour action, fast-tracking of economic decision-making rules, etcetera. Drawing from the German “Konzertierte Aktion” experience, the idea of coordinating behaviour between government, local authorities, trade unions and the Central Bank, will be explored.
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Land expropriation without compensation
The ANC government resolved to introduce land reform policy that would allow for expropriation without compensation. Amendments to section 25 of the Constitution are currently before parliament. Whilst the ANC has been clear on its pronouncement that the measures will not include any ‘land grab’ scenarios, nor will they be designed in a manner that would harm the economy, the lack of a clearly defined policy, serves as a constraint on foreign direct investment and growth. These discussions will aim to consolidate current land reform thinking in the ruling party and will serve as an indicator as to the direction that the policy is taking.
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Progressive Business roundtable series
The ISI will undertake a quarterly series of roundtable discussions with progressive business, for example on mining: value beyond compliance. The ISI, in choosing relevant topics for discussion, will be guided by the ANC’s January the 8th policy statement, the president’s state of the nation address and current day developments within the economy.
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