South Africa: NCOP calls for comments on the Prevention and Combatting of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Bill

On 18 April 2023, the National Council of Provinces Select Committee on Security and Justice issued a call for stakeholders and interested parties to submit written comments on the Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Bill [B9B-2018].

The Bill seeks to give effect to the state’s constitutional and international obligations in combatting racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance by outlining hate crimes and hate speech as offences. It seeks to provide appropriate sentences for individuals who commit hate crimes and hate speech offences. Further, the Bill aims to prevent such crimes and establish provisions for the prosecution of those who commit hate crimes and hate speech offences.

• The deadline for submissions is Friday, 12 May 2023 at 13:00. Submissions can be sent to [email protected]
• The call for written submissions is accessible here.
• The Bill is accessible here.

Please note: The information contained in this note is for general guidance on matters of interest, and does not constitute legal advice. For any enquiries, please contact us at [email protected].