Beyond Redress: Prioritising the Child's Best Interests to Achieve Equality before the Law in South Africa
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The book's central thesis is both provocative and compelling: that well-intentioned policies designed to redress the injustices of apartheid have inadvertently perpetuated inequality and exacerbated social ills. By meticulously examining the unintended consequences of affirmative action, Black Economic Empowerment (BEE), and other race-based initiatives, the author reveals a troubling reality: that these policies have often benefited a privileged few while leaving the majority of South Africans, particularly the "born-free" generation, mired in poverty and disadvantage.
"Beyond Redress" confronts the uncomfortable truth that the pursuit of redress has sometimes come at the expense of the best interests of the child. The book highlights how discriminatory practices, even those sanctioned by the state in the name of "fair discrimination," can have devastating consequences for children's development, education, and future prospects.
Through poignant anecdotes and compelling data, the book paints a vivid picture of the challenges faced by the "born-free" generation and their children. It reveals how the burden of redress policies often falls disproportionately on the shoulders of these young people, limiting their opportunities and perpetuating a cycle of disadvantage.
But "Beyond Redress" is not simply a critique of the status quo; it is a call to action, a blueprint for a more just and equitable future. The author proposes a radical reimagining of South Africa's approach to redress, one that prioritizes the best interests of the child above all else. This child-centric approach recognizes that every policy decision ultimately impacts the lives of children.
At the heart of this vision is a shift away from race-based policies towards a merit-based system that rewards individual potential and achievement. By focusing on individual capabilities rather than immutable characteristics, South Africa can create a truly inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to succeed based on their own merit.
