To the Minister of Social Development, the Honorable Sisisi Tolashe

The Social Policy Initiative (SPI) extends our heartfelt congratulations on the appointments of the Honourable Minister Nokuzola Gladys Tolashe, and the Honourable Deputy Minister Ganief Hendricks to the Ministry of Social Development in the 7th administration. We acknowledge and recognize the many challenges this crucial portfolio presents because it’s a key constitutional obligation. The provision […]

Executive Summary: Global innovations in social security and labour market activation policies

The COVID-19 pandemic shone the spotlight on the importance of proactive investments in buildingcomprehensive and resilient social security systems that are responsive to exogenous shocks (Bowenet al., 2020). It also highlighted the important role of response machanisms for a state in crisis. Using empirical evidence SPI conducted a study looking at the advantages inclusive social […]

We the Youth are saying yes to universal basic income, jobs, and skills development

This historic day marks 48 years since the Soweto Uprising, where 20,000 young people stood up against the apartheid regime’s Bantu Education policies. A catalytic youth-led protest that fundamentally changed the socio-political landscape of South Africa. The Social Policy Initiative (SPI) remembers and commemorates the bravery and sacrifices of the youth of 1976 and recognises […]

Policy Brief: Social Protection for Climate Justice

Social Protection for Climate Justice: Why and How? Climate change disproportionately affects the most vulnerable populations. Strengthening rights-based social protection systems using climate funding is crucial for managing climate-related risks and supporting long-term adaptation. Key Points: Call to Action: Learn More Read the full policy brief on the strategic use of climate funding for social […]

Parties Woo South Africa’s Poorest Voters with Promise of Basic Income

As South Africans head to the polls on 29 May, both the ruling party and its challengers are promising to introduce a universal basic income – a long-standing demand by activists, including the Social Policy Initiative (SPI). Our Executive Director, Isobel Frye, emphasizes the importance of a basic income in addressing poverty and inequality. Read […]

SPI Applauds ANC’s Commitment to Universal Basic Income

The Social Policy Initiative (SPI) welcomes the press statement released yesterday by the ANC affirming the longstanding support by the ANC of the principle of Universal Basic Income support. We call on all political parties to come out in these last days before the elections to pledge support for the introduction of a decent Universal Basic Income Grant immediately after the elections, […]

Obituary: Justice Yvonne Mokgoro, 1950 to 2024.

SPI sadly mourns the passing of Justice Yvonne Mokgoro, and we extend our deepest sympathies to her family, her colleagues and the nation as we have lost one of the greats. Justice Mokgoro’ s life is an exemplar for social justice in South Africa, the region and globally. She served on the Constitutional Court as […]