With unemployment at 33%, youth joblessness above 60%, and the economy barely growing, South Africa stands on the edge of a social and economic timebomb. Labour laws meant to protect workers have instead locked millions out of jobs, denying them both income and dignity.

Join us for the launch of FMF Policy Officer Zakhele Mthembu’s latest paper: Defusing the Joblessness Timebomb: Restoring Dignity and Choice through Labour Regulation Exemption.

The paper proposes a bold reform that empowers the unemployed to opt out of restrictive labour laws, freeing them to negotiate work on their own terms. By restoring the right to choose work, it offers a path to mass employment, renewed dignity, and lasting economic freedom.

This paper forms part of the Liberty First initiative, a campaign dedicated to advancing individual freedom, constitutional governance, and economic prosperity.