Today, President Ramaphosa signed into law or given his approval to the Preventing and
Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Bill, which criminalises hate crimes and hate
speech.
To break it down for us
Ben Winks
Independent advocate specialising in media, constitutional and international law.

President assents to law Bill criminalising hate crimes, hate speech
President Cyril Ramaphosa has given his approval to the Preventing and Combating of Hate
Crimes and Hate Speech Bill, which criminalises hate crimes and hate speech. 
The law also outlines the prosecution process for individuals who perpetrate these offences.
“This legislative measure gives effect to South Africa’s obligations in terms of the Constitution
and international human rights instruments concerning racism, racial discrimination,
xenophobia and related intolerance, in accordance with international law obligations,” the
Presidency explained in a statement on Thursday.