Disaster-Appropriate Policing in South Africa: Protests and State Violence in the COVID-19 Era
Date
2021-08Author
Rebello, Steven
Copelyn, Jesse
Moloto, Boikanyo
Makhathini, Sinqobile
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Abstract
This policy brief examines South African Police Services (SAPS) responses to public protests since the
onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa. It highlights an increased use of state violence and
excessive force in response to such protests. The brief argues that the use of state violence undermines
our ability to address the root causes of such protests, as well as erodes the trust and social cohesion
required to effectively manage the COVID-19 pandemic. It suggests several factors that may have
contributed to this increased state violence and provides recommendations as to how such violence
may be reduced or prevented.