Exploring the dynamics of terrorism in South Africa

Abstract

This article aims to explore the dynamics of terrorism in South Africa. More specifically, we examine critically the possible security threats in the form of terrorism posing a danger to South Africa’s democracy. Although the country has not seen any full-blown terrorist related incidents, it has seen the proliferation of service delivery protests emanating from discontent regarding poor socioeconomic conditions experienced by the public. At times, these protests have often demonstrated a form of gendering which has happened at the expense of female activists. This is a qualitative study, owing to its descriptive and exploration strong points. The central thesis contends that grounds for possible terrorism in South Africa do exist. These grounds include, inter alia, the erosion of public trust in law enforcement and racial and ethnic divisions among South Africans. Cases of the use of illegal firearms, which, in various instances, were alleged to have been promulgated by illegal foreign nationals within South African borders, have raised concerns about the country’s security outlook. This has been viewed as a direct consequence of poor border management, resulting in porous borders. Challenges such as excessive red tape, a lack of proper cooperation among stakeholders, and possible corruption within border management compounded
this problem. The paper adopts the Clash of Civilizations and Strain Theories to foreground its postulations. We recommend for the establishment of a department or ministry of border management and strengthening of law enforcement to combat crime that can result in terrorism.