Story perspectives

IRR Challenges BEE Success Amid Rising Unemployment Crisis

9/18/2025

Summary

Story summary

The Institute of Race Relations (IRR) disputes Deputy President Paul Mashatile's claim of Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) success, noting rising unemployment and inequality.
Unemployment is currently at 33.2%, up from 22.6% in 2003, with Black unemployment exceeding pre-BEE levels.
IRR polling reveals 84% of South Africans prefer merit-based hiring, and 76% support voucher-based empowerment over BEE.
The IRR suggests Economic Empowerment for the Disadvantaged (EED) as a non-racial, pro-growth alternative.
ANC support has dropped from nearly 70% in 2004 to 40% in 2024, indicating public discontent with BEE results.

History

Historical Context

Since the end of apartheid in 1994, South Africa has struggled with economic inequality despite implementing Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) policies. By 2024, unemployment reached 33.2%, with Black unemployment exceeding pre-BEE levels. The ANC's support plummeted from nearly 70% in 2004 to 40% in 2024, reflecting public discontent and a demand for new economic strategies.

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Story summary

The Institute of Race Relations (IRR) disputes Deputy President Paul Mashatile's claim of Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) success, noting rising unemployment and inequality.
Unemployment is currently at 33.2%, up from 22.6% in 2003, with Black unemployment exceeding pre-BEE levels.
IRR polling reveals 84% of South Africans prefer merit-based hiring, and 76% support voucher-based empowerment over BEE.
The IRR suggests Economic Empowerment for the Disadvantaged (EED) as a non-racial, pro-growth alternative.
ANC support has dropped from nearly 70% in 2004 to 40% in 2024, indicating public discontent with BEE results.

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