Overview

High levels of gender-based violence continued; perpetrators enjoyed impunity, and the Public Protector found that the criminal justice system failed victims. The murder rate remained high and the police’s ability to adequately investigate these crimes declined. The police failed to provide protection for human rights defenders under threat. The Department of Basic Education failed in its promise to eradicate pit latrines in schools. The National Health Insurance Bill was signed into law, triggering legal challenges. There were nationwide water shortages. The cabinet adopted a white paper that threatened to erode refugee rights. Police continued to use excessive force. The Presidential Climate Commission found that, despite strong commitments to tackle climate change, progress was slow.